By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a young man known only as Abdul, just a day after his burial, the swift breakthrough came following a viral social media appeal that mobilized public attention and action.
The suspect was apprehended in the eastern part of Freetown after a concerned citizen recognized him from an image widely circulated online, the photo, shared by the local digital platform Born 2 Blog, was posted shortly after Abdul’s funeral, calling on the public to assist in identifying and locating the alleged perpetrator.
The post quickly gained traction, with hundreds of shares and comments across various platforms, within hours, a tip-off was made to both Abdul’s family and the Sierra Leone Police, prompting a swift and coordinated response. Officers were dispatched to the reported location and successfully arrested the suspect without resistance.
Police confirmed the arrest and said the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue. They praised the public’s engagement and highlighted the critical role social media played in facilitating the arrest.
The collaboration between the public and the police was essential, a spokesperson for the Sierra Leone Police said. This case underscores how technology and community vigilance can work hand-in-hand to promote justice.
Abdul’s grieving family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the public for their support during an immensely painful time, we are deeply thankful, said a family member, the solidarity shown by strangers, the rapid spread of the suspect’s image, and the swift police action brought us a step closer to justice for Abdul.
The case has ignited broader discussion about the growing influence of digital media in crime-solving, with many citizens applauding the power of online platforms to support law enforcement and community safety.
This is a powerful example of what’s possible when communities take initiative, said one resident, it’s a reminder that we all have a role to play in promoting accountability, as police continue their investigation, they are encouraging anyone with further information to come forward, meanwhile, Abdul’s loved ones continue to mourn the untimely loss, holding on to the hope that justice will prevail.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Monday, June 16TH, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
