On 26 November 2023, a group of militants attacked several locations in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. The country was subsequently placed under a nationwide curfew, with a manhunt being called to find the militants. President Julius Maada Bio claimed the attack was repelled by the security forces and said the government was in control of the situation. The attacks were described by international organizations as attempts to disrupt constitutional order in the country, and by information minister Chernor Bah as an “attempted coup”.
The attacks came amid political tensions brought about by the re-election of President Julius Maada Bio in June 2023 which was disputed by the opposition and raised concerns from the United States and the European Union. In August, there were reports of a coup plot, which led to the arrest of several soldiers.
Sierra Leone Police are looking for 18182067 L/CpL Sesay M. Artillery unit, a Military Personnel and several others they suspect of being involved in the November 26 2023 Failed Coup in Freetown. Concerns have been raised by rights organizations urging President Julius Maada Bio’s government not to exploit this situation to target opposition members and stifle dissent.
Mary Sesay, a single lady, has faced distressing circumstances. She was known as a prominent vocal personnel who consistently advocated for the rights of the Sierra Leone Armed Forces.
Officials say Mary and Adebayoh, another prominent social media advocate based in Holland, organized various protests in Makeni and Freetown, including the unrest on August 10. The Sierra Leone Police have issued an arrest warrant for Mary and many others.
During the events of November 26, there was widespread civil unrest across the country, with Prisoners from the Country’s Maximum Prison breaked and demanding President Bio’s resignation. Military Personnel got out of control, resulting in fatalities among law enforcement officials and property damage. In response, the police resorted to harsh measures, resulting in the violent deaths of several prominent high ranking Personnel, such as Former President Koroma Body Guard Leather Boot died and several others as a result of exchange of firing in the Capital city.
Many members of the targeted opposition group, including 18182067 L/CpL Sesay M. Artillery unit, have fled for safety as their fate remains uncertain, causing immense distress to their families. The riot paralyzed normal activities in the capital and opposition strongholds, leading to Marty’s identification as a wanted individual by the Sierra Leone Police, increasing the risk of her arrest.
In the aftermath of the November 26 failed coup, the Sierra Leone government has initiated an inquiry, summoning various Military Personnel members and prominent figures for questioning. The crackdown on the military has resulted in numerous arrests and incarcerations.
Amid these turbulent events, Mary’s personal life unraveled, as her family under pressure. Even in the face of personal tragedy following the loss of her Boss, Mary’s whereabouts remain unknown, adding to the uncertainty and concerns surrounding her circumstances.