RSLAF Responds to Viral Video on Death of Two Soldiers
Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has dismissed as false a viral video circulating on social media claiming that Corporal Kamara, also known as “No. 9,” was killed by security forces following his arrest after fatally shooting his superior officer.
In a statement issued on Thursday, RSLAF described the video as a “prank” deliberately designed to mislead the public and undermine the military’s human rights record, particularly in the handling of personnel suspected of committing serious offences.
According to RSLAF, the video does not reflect the true circumstances surrounding the death of Corporal Kamara, who shot and killed Major Larkoh on January 14, 2026. Preliminary investigations revealed that at about 11:00 a.m. on the day of the incident, Corporal Kamara aggressively confronted Major Larkoh and openly threatened to kill him.
RSLAF stated that Corporal Kamara subsequently fired three shots at close range, fatally wounding the senior officer, who died at the scene before evacuation could be carried out.
The Armed Forces further explained that immediately after the shooting, Corporal Kamara attempted to take his own life in an apparent effort to evade arrest, investigation, and prosecution. He was later taken into medical custody and rushed to the 34 Military Hospital, where efforts were made to save his life. However, he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Addressing the circulating video, RSLAF said its analysis suggests the footage likely depicts scenes from a past conflict in Sierra Leone and is not connected to the death of Corporal Kamara.
The military leadership strongly rejected allegations of torture, stressing that RSLAF does not torture its personnel under any circumstances, regardless of the severity of the offence. Instead, suspects are arrested and handed over for due process and fair trial.
To support its position, RSLAF cited previous cases, including that of Corporal Joseph Lamin Stevens, who allegedly shot and killed Warrant Officer Class One Moses Brima Kabba in Lungi in 2025. Stevens was arrested after a manhunt, handed over to the police, and is currently standing trial before Principal Magistrate Mustapha Braima-Jah at the Freetown Magistrate Court No. 1.
The Armed Forces also referenced the handling of suspects linked to the failed coup attempt of November 26, 2023, noting that despite the killing of 18 security personnel during the incident, those arrested — including the alleged ringleader Amadu Koita Makalo — were investigated, prosecuted, convicted, and sentenced without being subjected to torture.
Meanwhile, RSLAF has assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of both Major Larkoh and Corporal Kamara.
RSLAF urged the public to disregard unverified information on social media and to rely on official sources for accurate updates.
