CHRDI: Over 1,000 Inmates Allegedly Held Without Trial in Freetown Prisons
By Staff Writer
The Centre for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has raised the alarm over alleged human rights violations at Pademba Road and New England prisons in Freetown, citing overcrowding, prolonged detention without trial, preventable deaths and inadequate medical care.
In a press release dated 19 October 2026, CHRDI reported that the two facilities
hold 2,016 male inmates and more than 184 female inmates, with over 1,000 people allegedly detained without trial. The organisation also reported 20 preventable deaths, concerns over tuberculosis and HIV patients being housed alongside other prisoners, and the presence of infants incarcerated with their mothers.
The organisation further criticised the reported detention of individuals unable to pay fines as low as Le 4,000, warning that such practices raise concerns about access to justice and the protection of fundamental rights.
CHRDI said the reported conditions raise questions about compliance with Section 23 of Sierra Leone’s Constitution, Rule 22 of the United Nations Nelson Mandela Rules, Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The human rights organisation is urging authorities to address the alleged violations by releasing eligible detainees held without formal charges and individuals imprisoned for failing to pay fines. It is also calling for better protection for mothers and infants, appropriate medical arrangements for prisoners with infectious diseases, and greater judicial accountability.
CHRDI has called on the relevant authorities to take urgent steps to improve prison conditions, protect inmates’ welfare and uphold their fundamental rights.
The figures and allegations in this report are based on CHRDI’s press release and have not been independently verified.
