Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a significant development amid ongoing political tensions, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) arrested prominent model, actress, and All People’s Congress (APC) member Zainab Sheriff this morning on allegations of threatening language, incitement, and related offenses.
Sheriff, who had been declared wanted by authorities earlier this month, is currently being processed at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in Freetown and is expected to face formal charges in the coming days.
The arrest follows a public notice issued by the SLP on February 13, 2026, labeling Sheriff as a suspect in connection with content shared on social media that allegedly incited unrest and contained threatening remarks.
Described in the warrant as a Sierra Leonean adult and professional model residing in Freetown, Sheriff’s case has drawn attention due to her vocal criticism of the government, including past accusations against President Julius Maada Bio and his administration.
Police officials emphasized that “no one can hide from the long arm of the law forever,” underscoring their commitment to pursuing the case.
Sheriff, a well-known figure in Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry and a self-described philanthropist and entrepreneur, has a history of clashing with authorities over her outspoken views. In April 2023, she was previously arrested and briefly detained for a viral video accusing President Bio of extrajudicial killings, an incident that sparked widespread debate on freedom of expression in the country. She was released on bail at the time, but the event highlighted concerns from civil society groups about the suppression of dissent. Similar criticisms have resurfaced in recent social media posts attributed to her, which reportedly targeted government policies and leadership.
In response to the wanted notice, Sheriff addressed the public in a video shared on February 18, 2026, stating defiantly, “I am not afraid; I was made for this.”
She challenged the authorities to contact her directly, providing her phone number and asserting that she would not flee the country she claims to be fighting for. The video, which circulated widely on platforms like YouTube and social media, amplified calls from opposition supporters and human rights advocates for her protection.
As of now, no court date has been set, but sources indicate that Sheriff will undergo interrogation at CID before any formal proceedings.
Updates will follow as more details emerge.
