High Court Sentences 11 for Failed Sierra Leone Coup

A high court in Sierra Leone has sentenced 11 individuals, including soldiers and police officers, to long prison terms for their roles in a failed military coup last year. The coup attempt, which occurred on November 26, resulted in the deaths of over 20 people and the freeing of 2,200 inmates.

A high court in Sierra Leone has handed down long prison sentences to 11 individuals, including soldiers and police officers, for their participation in a failed military coup last year. The November 26 coup attempt involved attacks on military barracks, a prison, and other locations, freeing approximately 2,200 inmates and costing over 20 lives.

Following the collapse of the coup, 12 people were charged with treason in January. On Monday, 11 of them were convicted on 20 counts, including treason, murder, and unauthorized use of military uniforms. Bai Mahmoud Bangura, from the opposition All People's Congress (APC) party, is being tried separately due to health issues.

Among those sentenced, retired army major Amadu Koita Makalo received concurrent sentences ranging from 40 to 70 years. Two female police officers were also sentenced, with one, Ramatu Kamanda Conteh, receiving 30 years for harboring Koita.

The government stated the coup was led predominantly by bodyguards to former president Ernest Bai Koroma, who was later charged with related offenses but allowed to leave the country on medical grounds. Koroma has condemned the coup attempt, with his lawyers describing the charges as politically motivated.

Tensions in Sierra Leone have risen again, reminiscent of the aftermath of the 1991-2002 civil war that claimed more than 50,000 lives.

(With inputs from agencies.)