In a landmark verdict, Amadu Koita Makalo has been sentenced to over 300 years in prison on several counts of treason.
He has received sentences of 52 years for Count 1, 52 years for Count 3, 70 years for additional counts, and 60 years for Counts 17, 18, and 19.
Makalo, along with other accused individuals, was charged in connection with an alleged attempted coup on November 26, 2023, which included a reported attempt to breach Wilberforce Barracks and the alleged killing of military officers.
Makalo, a former soldier and bodyguard for ex-President Ernest Bai Koroma, was arrested on December 4, 2023, and was among 85 people detained, mostly military personnel.
He gained significant attention on social media for his outspoken criticism of President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
During his trial before Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda at High Court No. 1, Makalo denied all charges, claiming he was forcibly detained and coerced into making a false confession. Despite his defense, the court found him guilty.
The events of November 26, 2023, involved armed attackers storming multiple military and police facilities, leading to violent clashes, 21 deaths, and the escape of hundreds of prisoners before order was restored.
In a significant development earlier today, several other accused individuals standing trial for treason were also found guilty. These include Mohamed Jalloh, Sgt. Mohamed Sallue Kamara, Ramatu Kanda Conteh, Alimatu Hassan Bangura, Hassan Leigh, Mohamed Wurrie, ASP Ibrahim Sesay, Tamba Yamba, Kabba Kamara, and Abdul Sorie Hassan Kamara. The verdicts on Counts 13 and 14, related to another accused, Bai Mamoud Bangura, who is currently on bail, are still pending.
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