KPYO’s Director Ibrahim Turay Declared Wanted Over Alleged Role in August 10 Protest Violence
By Oseh Davies
Freetown, 2nd September 2022 — The Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), through the Sierra Leone Police, has intensified investigations into the violent August 10 protests by declaring Ibrahim Turay, identified as the Director and founder of the Kissy Progressive Youth Organisation (KPYO), wanted for his alleged involvement in organising and mobilising youths during the unrest.
The August 10 protest, which began as an anti-government demonstration in parts of Freetown and other areas, later escalated into violent clashes that resulted in the deaths of civilians and police officers, as well as destruction of property.
Earlier reports and wanted notices circulated on various newspapers and social media platforms had identified another individual as Ibrahim Turay. However, following public reactions and concerns raised by members of the Kissy community, the Sierra Leone Police launched further investigations which reportedly revealed that the person initially identified was not the actual suspect.
According to police sources, several executive members and associates of the Kissy Progressive Youth Organisation who are currently in police custody have been assisting investigators with information relating to the organisation and the protest activities.
During questioning led by the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, the detained members allegedly identified Ibrahim Turay as the leader and Director of KPYO. Investigators were reportedly provided with details regarding his background, including his connection to Waterloo Bassa Town and his former attendance at the Methodist Boys High School.
One of the detained executive members, Mohamed Sesay, who reportedly held a one-on-one conversation with the Inspector General of Police, stated that Ibrahim Turay was the individual who recruited and brought many of them into the youth organisation. Sesay further alleged that Turay was the main person who called on residents and youths of Jalloh Terrace, Kissy, to participate in the protest.
Mohamed Sesay also claimed that Ibrahim Turay is a supporter of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party. According to statements gathered from community members, Turay was allegedly seen participating as a campaign supporter for Aminata Gibril Sesay during the 2018 General Elections, when she contested for the position of Councillor for Ward 403 in the Kissy community in Freetown.
Other individuals reportedly mentioned during the investigations include Mary Bangura, identified as Financial Director of KPYO; Alhaji Osman Kargbo, described as the Public Relations Director; Albert Thullah; Abdul Aziz Dumbuya; and several others.
Police authorities say investigations into the August 10 disturbances remain ongoing, and further arrests and developments may follow as inquiries continue.
