HRDN-SL Condemns Alleged Torture of Civilians by Military Personnel in Moyamba
The Human Rights Defenders Network Sierra Leone (HRDN-SL) has strongly condemned the alleged torture and inhuman treatment of two civilians by personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) in Senehun, Kamajei Chiefdom, Moyamba District.
According to HRDN-SL, the two men were reportedly apprehended after being accused of stealing fertiliser while working as casual labourers on a local farm. The organization said the men were allegedly subjected to severe physical abuse, including beatings, chaining, intimidation and coercion to force confessions to the alleged theft.
HRDN-SL disclosed that it had reviewed a video recording purportedly showing part of the incident. The footage allegedly depicts the two men chained to a metal frame on the ground while being repeatedly beaten by uniformed military personnel with sticks and other objects as they cried out in pain. The organization stated that, if verified, the treatment shown in the video bears no resemblance to lawful arrest or detention procedures and appears consistent with torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
The human rights organization emphasized that torture is prohibited under both Sierra Leonean and international law. It noted that the Constitution of Sierra Leone guarantees every individual the right to dignity and protection from inhuman treatment, while the country is also a State Party to the Convention Against Torture and other international human rights instruments that require states to prevent, investigate and punish such violations.
HRDN-SL acknowledged the swift response by the RSLAF leadership, including its public apology and condemnation of the alleged actions of its personnel. The organization also welcomed reports that the victims had been referred for medical treatment and that an internal investigation had been launched. It further commended community leaders for helping to maintain calm and facilitate dialogue between residents and the military.
However, HRDN-SL stressed that these initial measures must be followed by full accountability, noting that public confidence in Sierra Leone’s security institutions depends on transparent investigations and appropriate sanctions where misconduct is established.
The organization has called for an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into the alleged torture, with the findings made public. It also urged authorities to pursue criminal and disciplinary action against any personnel found responsible, provide appropriate compensation and reparations to the victims, including continued medical and psychosocial support, and strengthen human rights training and oversight mechanisms within the security sector to prevent similar incidents.
HRDN-SL concluded by urging the relevant authorities to ensure justice is served, stating that torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment have no place in a democratic society and that accountability is essential to maintaining public trust in the country’s security institutions.
