Police hunt gay suspects after fleeing custody during attempted coup
Two suspects on offences of homosexuality to wit gay and escaping lawful custody, Saffa Alpha, commonly identified as “Brown Skin,” and Kamara Kelvin, described as “Dark Skin,” (both adult) are currently on the run after reportedly escaping from police custodyduring the security breakdown that followed the attempted coup of November 26, 2023.
According to a press release issued by the Sierra Leone Police on November 30th, 2023, the duo were among several detainees who escaped amid coordinated attacks on detention facilities across Freetown. Authorities stated that the suspects “skillfully maneuvered” their way out of custody during the unrest.
At around 2a.m in the early hours of Sunday, November 26, 2023 saw an attempted coup aimed at overthrowing the government of Julius Maada Bio. The incident triggered widespread insecurity, including a major breach at the Pademba Road Maximum Correctional Centre, where numerous inmates, reportedly including hardened criminals and political detainees escaped.
Security officials further disclosed that some of the escapees went on to attack police stations in different parts of the capital, freeing additional suspects in custody and compounding the breakdown of law and order.
Police investigations indicate that Saffa Alpha and Kamara Kelvin were being held at the Kissy Police Station prior to their escape. The suspects had been arrested on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at Kamara Town in Wellington following a tip-off from a community member. Authorities claim the two were apprehended on homosexuality “red-handed” and were under investigation at the time of the incident.
Amid the confusion and coordinated prison breaks, the suspects reportedly fled custody and have since remained at large.
The Sierra Leone Police has declared both men wanted, noting that they are required for further questioning and to face trial. Law enforcement authorities have also announced a reward for credible information leading to their arrest.
More directly, Sierra Leone’s criminalisation of same-sex relations is anchored in the inherited Offences Against the Person Act of 1861.
These laws combined with entrenched cultural and religious beliefs have created a social and legal climate in Sierra Leone that is largely hostile to LGBTQ+ expression. Even where enforcement may be inconsistent, the existence of such legislation continues to legitimise stigma, discrimination, and, in some cases, arbitrary detention.
Members of the public are urged to report any sightings or relevant information to the police using the following contact number: +23276 418635.
“As at the time of going to press, the suspects have not yet been re-arrested,” the statement emphasized, as authorities intensify efforts to restore order and track down both suspects, Saffa Alpha and Kamara Kelvin to face trial.
