By: Isatu Bai Kamara
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has officially received the Independent Police Complaints Board (IPCB) investigative report into the death of a commercial motorcycle rider in Kailahun District, an incident that sparked widespread unrest and resulted in the partial destruction of police facilities in the district.
The report was formally presented to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq., by the Chairman of the Independent Police Complaints Board, Mr. Saa Kpulum, during a meeting held at the Ministry’s headquarters on Gloucester Street in Freetown.
The investigation followed the tragic events of June 21, 2026, when the death of a bike rider allegedly involving police actions ignited violent protests in Kailahun. The unrest led to attacks on public property, including the partial burning of the police barracks and residential quarters occupied by security personnel.
Presenting the findings, IPCB Chairman Mr. Saa Kpulum said the Board immediately commenced an independent investigation after receiving reports about the incident. He explained that an investigation team was dispatched to Kailahun on June 22 with logistical support from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, enabling the Board to carry out its statutory responsibility of independently examining complaints involving police conduct.
According to Mr. Kpulum, investigators interviewed a broad range of stakeholders, including police officers, local authorities, eyewitnesses, community leaders, members of the bike riders’ union, and relatives of the deceased. He noted that documentary evidence and other relevant materials were also reviewed to ensure that the investigation was comprehensive, impartial, and based on verified facts.
He emphasized that the Board remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the Sierra Leone Police, stressing that independent investigations play a vital role in strengthening public trust in law enforcement institutions.
“The credibility of our justice system depends on the confidence people have in independent oversight mechanisms,” Mr. Kpulum stated, adding that the Board’s work is intended to ensure fairness for all parties while safeguarding the rights of both citizens and security personnel.
The IPCB Chairman further disclosed that the report would also be publicly presented in Kailahun, where the incident occurred, allowing residents and other stakeholders to better understand the outcome of the investigation and recommendations made by the Board. He thanked the Ministry of Internal Affairs for facilitating the investigation and supporting the Board throughout the process.
Receiving the report, Minister Morie Lengor commended the Independent Police Complaints Board for conducting what he described as a professional and objective investigation into a matter of significant national concern.
The Minister assured the Board that the Ministry would carefully study the report and its recommendations before taking any appropriate administrative or policy actions required. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensuring accountability, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law across the country’s security institutions.
Minister Lengor stressed that every allegation involving the conduct of law enforcement officers deserves thorough and impartial scrutiny, noting that public confidence in the security sector can only be sustained through transparency and fairness.
He further stated that the Government remains committed to strengthening oversight institutions that promote responsible policing and peaceful relations between security agencies and the communities they serve.
The Minister concluded by expressing appreciation to Mr. Saa Kpulum and the entire IPCB investigation team for their dedication and professionalism, describing the report as an important contribution toward justice, institutional accountability, and the continued promotion of peace and public confidence in Sierra Leone’s security sector.