Mohamed Hamza Sesay is currently living in fear for his life following an alleged assassination attempt and continued persecution linked to a long-standing land dispute in Mafala Village, Biriwa Chiefdom, Bombali District, in northeastern Sierra Leone.
The dispute originated between Hamza’s father, Pa Alhaji Sesay, and the town headman, Pa Musa Bangura, over ownership of a piece of land said to belong to the Sesay family. On 30th June 2022, Hamza and his father reportedly went to clear the land when the town headman allegedly sent armed thugs to attack them. The attackers inflicted serious injuries on both men. Hamza, however, managed to apprehend one of the assailants during the confrontation.
It is alleged that the town headman enjoys the backing of a ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Member of Parliament. Following the failed attack, Hamza has reportedly become the main target of persecution. The Sesay family, known supporters of the opposition APC, has since fled the village.
A manhunt is allegedly underway to arrest or eliminate Hamza, while police have declared him wanted on what the family describes as trumped-up charges. The family’s whereabouts remain unknown due to serious security concerns.