FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – In a press release issued today, the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) revealed its involvement in a disturbing child cruelty case.
The HRCSL stated that they have been actively monitoring allegations of child abuse circulating on social media.
Following a thorough investigation, the HRCSL’s Directorate of Gender and Children’s Affairs identified the victim as Mariama Musa, a five-year-old child residing with her aunt, Fatmata Barrie, at Murray Town Barracks in Freetown.
According to the police, Mariama is currently undergoing medical examinations at Sight Savers, while the alleged perpetrator, Fatmata Barrie, is in custody at the Congo Cross Police Division in Freetown.
An eyewitness account places the incident at Murray Town Barracks in Freetown, occurring just days ago.
Mariama Musa, a vulnerable five-year-old, was subjected to disfigurement by her aunt, Fatmata Barrie, reportedly for taking food from the pot after enduring a day of starvation.
The witness elaborated, stating, “This 5-year-old girl was recently brought by this woman from the village to assist with domestic work at home. This is just one of several instances of child abuse that this woman has allegedly inflicted upon the young girl in the name of discipline. We implore the authorities to intervene on behalf of this innocent child, as the woman is purportedly boasting about her husband’s military status, claiming immunity from repercussions, even from the police. They reside in the well-known Capt. Thoranka’s compound within Murray Town Barracks.”
This shocking case has garnered widespread attention and calls for justice as Sierra Leoneans rally behind young Mariama Musa, demanding that those responsible for her suffering be held accountable.
The HRCSL has assured the public of its commitment to ensuring justice prevails in this troubling incident.
