October 25, 2024 – Dramatic new developments have surfaced in the Court Martial proceedings related to an alleged plot to overthrow President Bio.
In a turn of events, the prosecution has unveiled video footage purportedly showing a ritual ceremony connected to the alleged coup planning. This video, which marks the first visual evidence presented, reportedly captures a ritual sacrifice involving key figures accused in the conspiracy.
The footage, introduced as evidence in the Court Martial case of The State vs. Staff Sergeant Alhaji Koroma and 26 Others, is said to depict a “ritual sacrifice of a black-and-white cow.”
Among those allegedly present in the video are three principal architects of the foiled November 26, 2023 coup, including Amadu Koita, Idrissa Ahmid Kamara (known as “Leather Boot”), and fugitive Kabbah Dumbuya. Prosecutors claim the ritual was performed outside Sierra Leone, with the language spoken indicating it may have taken place elsewhere in West Africa.
The prosecution emphasized the significance of this video in showcasing the “lengths to which the planners went” in their efforts to dismantle the constitutional government. Though no witness testimony was provided regarding the video, it was submitted to underscore the level of preparation by the alleged plotters.
Ongoing Court Martial Proceedings
In parallel, two related Court Martial trials continue. The first case, involving Major Patrick Abu Ordende Sesay and five others, has seen examination of multiple witnesses. Each defendant faces eight charges, including mutiny, failure to suppress mutiny, and desertion, tied to alleged subversive activities following President Bio’s re-election in 2023.
The second case, concerning Major Bai Sesay and six others, involves charges tied to the deadly November coup attempt, in which 18 security personnel and two civilians were killed. This group faces similar counts, including mutiny, conspiracy, failure to suppress mutiny, and conduct prejudicial to military discipline.
The next sessions for these cases are scheduled for October 28 and 29, 2024.
Background and Additional Evidence
The video evidence, according to sources, was retrieved from Amadu Koita’s phone upon his arrest, and is being used by the prosecution to strengthen their case against the alleged plotters. This trial continues to capture national attention as the Court Martial reveals more details surrounding the alleged coup and ritualistic undertones that have been brought to light.
Source: Major Yayah Brima
Media Operations Officer, Joint Force Command, Cockerill Barracks
Phone/WhatsApp: 078 452 876
