Sierra Leone’s former president, Ernest Bai Koroma, has been summoned by the police for questioning in connection to the failed coup attempt on November 26, according to a statement released by the country’s Information Minister Chernor Bah on Thursday.
The statement revealed that Koroma is required to present himself at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department in Freetown within the next 24 hours.
In response, the ex-president expressed his willingness to comply with the summons, emphasizing his commitment to supporting the ongoing investigation.
“I maintain an open mind and stand ready to support the police investigations to the fullest. Let the rule of law reign supreme in our democracy,” said Koroma in a statement, calling for calm among the public.
The failed coup, attributed primarily to the former president’s bodyguards, prompted swift action from the government. In the aftermath, Koroma condemned the attacks in a statement, distancing himself from the alleged perpetrators.
The government’s information minister, Chernor Bah, disclosed that a total of 71 individuals have been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation.
Among them are 45 serving military officers, seven serving police officers, and 13 civilians. The revelation suggests a wide-reaching net cast by authorities to unravel the complexities surrounding the attempted coup.