A court in Sierra Leone has formally accused 27 soldiers of various offenses linked to an alleged coup attempt, as disclosed by the defense ministry in a recent statement. The charges encompass mutiny, failure to quell mutiny, murder, collaboration with the enemy, and other pertinent violations.
Last November, a group of armed individuals raided a military armory and multiple prisons in Freetown, releasing nearly 2,000 detainees. Authorities interpreted this event as an effort to topple the government.
Former President Ernest Bai Koroma was recently charged with treason in connection with the same incident. He has denied any involvement, despite approximately 20 fatalities during the events.
Additionally, legal action has been initiated against one of Mr. Koroma’s previous presidential bodyguards, along with 11 former law enforcement and correctional officers. Their charges range from treason and hiding treason to aiding and supporting the enemy.
The pre-trial proceedings for the 27 soldiers commenced in Freetown’s court on Monday but were adjourned until Wednesday.
These developments unfolded following a bout of violence in November, occurring five months after the re-election of current President Julius Maada Bio for a second term. The election results had been contested by the opposition and criticized by international observers due to concerns about transparency.
