The Sierra Leone Police have confirmed the arrest of prominent businessman Ahmed Basha, alongside seven other individuals, amid serious allegations of sexual exploitation involving underage girls. The disturbing revelations surrounding these arrests have sparked widespread public outrage and calls for immediate action.
In a recent interview aired on Liberty Online Television, the Deputy Head of Media at the Sierra Leone Police, ASP Mohamed Bobson Senu, provided details on the unfolding investigation. Reports indicate that the inquiry commenced following alarming claims that Basha, the owner of Basha Bakery located on Wilkinson Road, had allegedly abducted three teenage girls to his private residence in Aberdeen.
According to police officials, the victims in question are all 15 years old. They were reportedly confined at Basha’s home for an entire week, during which time they were subjected to horrific conditions. It is alleged that the girls were administered hard drugs and forced to engage in sexual acts against their will. Eyewitness accounts suggest that Basha would confine the victims within his home, locking them inside whenever he left for work.
The severity of these allegations has ignited significant public discourse, prompting various advocacy groups and individuals to demand a rigorous and transparent investigation. Notably, prominent lawyer Basita Michael, who has long been an advocate for children’s rights, took to social media to express her concerns over the handling of such cases. She emphasized the justice system’s troubling tendency to protect the wealthy and powerful, calling for measures that prioritize “the best interests of the child.”
In light of these distressing events, organizations such as Women in the Media, which champions the role of women in journalism, have also voiced their support for a thorough investigation. They insist on the necessity for the police to approach the case with “utmost seriousness, transparency, and timeliness.” Their advocacy serves as a reminder of the critical need for accountability in instances where the vulnerable are exploited.
Amidst this turmoil, the families of the alleged victims have reached out to key figures, including the First Lady, the Sierra Leone Police, and various government officials, imploring them to assure a fair and unbiased investigation. Their appeals underline the urgency of the situation and the need for justice to be served swiftly.
As the 57-year-old Lebanese businessman remains in custody at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters on Pademba Road in Freetown together with the other seven assisting the police with investigation, the community watches closely. The police are expected to provide updates on the progress of the investigation in the coming days. The overarching sentiment among the public is clear: there must be zero tolerance for crimes against minors, and those responsible for such deplorable actions should be held accountable.
These developments not only raise pressing legal and ethical questions but also reflect the broader societal issues surrounding child protection and justice in Sierra Leone. The outcome of this case could set important precedents for how similar allegations are treated in the future, underscoring the critical importance of vigilance and action in safeguarding the rights of children in society.