By sulaiman.sesay@awokonewspapersl.com
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – The courtroom at Pademba Road was tense on Friday as a key witness testified in the ongoing treason trial of former military officer Sallieu Jalloh, shedding new light on the alleged plot to overthrow the government.
Appearing before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah in Court No. 1, Jalloh, 52, is facing two grave charges—treason and misprision of treason—in connection with an alleged scheme involving military-grade weapons, coded instructions, and plans for a power grab.
Taking the witness stand, Detective Police Officer Hassan Commies of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) told the court that Jalloh voluntarily signed a caution statement following his arrest in Makeni on March 13, 2025.
“He willingly gave his statement in English, which was later explained to him in Krio,” Commies said, adding that the document was authenticated with Jalloh’s right thumbprint. The statement allegedly contains admissions linking Jalloh to the controversial plot.
According to the prosecution, Jalloh is accused of conspiring with Captain Aiah Aba Senessie and others between January 1, 2024, and March 13, 2025, to obtain firearms and ammunition in preparation for what was described as an “imminent power transition” planned for March 8, 2024.
Commies said he was on duty at CID Headquarters when the accused was brought in. He admitted under cross-examination that he was not present during the arrest and could not confirm defense claims that Jalloh’s eyes were tied during detention.
However, he confirmed that the accused’s mobile phone was seized and that Jalloh admitted to knowing Captain Senessie, a key figure also alleged to be part of the conspiracy.
Magistrate Jah, in his remarks, underscored the seriousness of the charges and hinted at a possible transfer of the matter to the High Court, urging the defense team to brace for a full trial.
For now, Sallieu Jalloh remains in custody at the Male Correctional Center as the case was adjourned to Tuesday, June 10, 2025. SKS/10/6/2025
