Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a surprising turn of events, Dr. Patricia Laverley, former Deputy Minister of Finance, has reportedly been detained by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) following an alleged altercation with the current Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Mrs. Nabeela Tunis.
According to reports from the Satellite Newspaper, the incident took place on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, within the walls of the State House.
Witnesses claim Dr. Laverley physically assaulted Minister Tunis in front of high-ranking officials, including the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu.
Sources at the State House indicate that tensions arose between the two over a controversial land lease involving the Sugar Loaf area at Lumley Beach, a site managed under Minister Tunis’s portfolio.
A reliable insider disclosed that the disagreement escalated, leading Dr. Laverley to reportedly slap Minister Tunis in frustration.
Following the incident, Dr. Laverley was brought to CID headquarters in Freetown for questioning. Sources say that the altercation has sparked concern among government officials, with some high-profile witnesses urging respect and protection for Minister Tunis as she carries out her duties in line with Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution.
Meanwhile, a source within the Cabinet has expressed support for Minister Tunis’s ongoing efforts to reclaim state-leased lands that hold potential for tourism development. The Cabinet reportedly stands by her decision to prioritize national interests without favoritism.
The police are expected to file charges against Dr. Laverley, who recently traveled from Kenya to meet with President Julius Maada Bio over the land dispute.
It’s unfortunate to hear that Dr Lavaley slapped her fellow woman with such high portfolio as cabinet minister . Let’s control our emotions , becoming angry to am extent that you either use abusive languages or slapped some is a gross human right violation. Let the law take it’s course