By Emma Black
Former military officer Sallieu Jalloh (52) appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 on Monday, facing serious charges of conspiring to unlawfully overthrow the Government of Sierra Leone. The case took a significant turn as Detective Police Officer Hassan Commies presented a caution statement allegedly signed by Jalloh, admitting his involvement in the plot.
Jalloh is charged with two offenses: Treason, under Section 3(1)(a) of the Treason and State Offences Act No. 10 of 1963, and Misprision of Treason, both of which carry severe legal consequences. The prosecution alleges that between January 1, 2024, and March 13, 2025, Jalloh collaborated with Captain Aiah Aba Senessie, Sergeant Bangura of Waterloo, Retired Sergeant Kamara, and other unidentified individuals to procure AK-47 rifles with the intent to topple the government. He is further accused of recruiting security personnel and civilians to secure firearms and ammunition.
A key incident cited in the indictment occurred on March 8, 2024, when Jalloh allegedly directed Sandy Sesay and his associates to remain on standby for an “imminent power transition.” Additionally, the prosecution claims that from November 26, 2023, to November 26, 2024, Jalloh concealed treasonous activities involving Captain Senessie and his co-conspirators. No plea was taken during the hearing, indicating the case’s complexity and the need for further legal proceedings.
Detective Hassan Commies (1818), an officer from the CID headquarters’ Operations Department, provided critical testimony. He stated that on March 13, 2025, he was on duty when Jalloh was arrested and brought from Makeni, with the case assigned to him for investigation. Assisted by Detective Sergeant Solomon Amadu (8904), Commies conducted an interview that day. Amadu questioned Jalloh in Krio, while Commies recorded the responses in English. The statement was subsequently read back and explained in Krio, and Jalloh confirmed its accuracy before signing it with his right-hand thumbprint. This document was formally tendered as evidence in court.
During cross-examination, the defense raised several points. Commies admitted he was not present during Jalloh’s arrest in Makeni and had no knowledge of allegations that the accused’s eyes were tied with cloth during the process. However, he confirmed retrieving Jalloh’s phone, which may yield further evidence, and acknowledged Jalloh’s admission of knowing Captain Senessie, a central figure in the alleged conspiracy.
Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah underscored the gravity of the case, noting that its serious nature necessitates swift action and is likely to be referred to the High Court for a more comprehensive trial. He advised the defense to prepare thoroughly for the next stage. Jalloh was remanded to the Male Correctional Center, with the case adjourned until June 10, 2025, pending further proceedings.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Wednesday, June 11TH, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
