A bodyguard to former Sierra Leonean President, Amadu Koita Makalo, has been sentenced to 182 years in prison. The bodyguard to the former President Ernest Bai Koroma, was jailed for his role in a failed coup last year.
Makalo, a former soldier, was found guilty of treason, murder, and shooting with intent to murder, alongside 10 others.
According to local newspaper, Awoko, the judge remarked during sentencing that the purpose of the sentence was to serve as a deterrent for people to know that coups or attempted coups to overthrow any legitimate government is no longer accepted.
This was disclosed by a judicial spokesman, Komba Kamanda. Speaking on the development said, “This sentence is meant to deter others from attempting such actions.”
Recall that the failed coup, which occurred in November,2023, involved attacks on a military barracks and prisons. It also resulted in over 2,000 prisoners being freed and at least 20 people killed.
The Government, however, regained control and termed the attack an attempt to overthrow the President.
According to the report, Makalo was widely followed on social media networks for his criticism of the government. He was, however, accused of being among the organizers of the coup plot.
The report stated that Makalo showed no remorse throughout the trial.
“The sentencing comes after a disputed election saw President Julius Maada Bio narrowly re-elected for a second term.
Former President Koroma, who ruled Sierra Leone for 11 years until 2018, was also charged with treason in connection with the coup attempt. Though he denied the charges, he is yet to return to Sierra Leone after being granted permission to travel to Nigeria on medical grounds.
source: BBC
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