By Thaimu Thulla
Tensions remain high in the conservative Fourah Bay community following the Sierra Leone Police’s official declaration of a man and woman wanted in connection with allegations of same-sex relations—a matter that has sparked outrage and unrest among residents.
The police announcement, made in the wake of multiple complaints from members of the public, named the individuals as Abdulai Kabba and Khadijatu Koroma. According to law enforcement sources, both are being sought in relation to what was described as “acts contrary to public morality,” following a series of reports filed by residents in the community.
While the full details surrounding the case remain unclear, the couple’s alleged involvement in same-sex relationships—an issue considered taboo in many parts of Sierra Leone, particularly in religiously conservative communities like Fourah Bay—has led to widespread condemnation and, reportedly, a violent public reaction.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that an incident occurred at the couple’s residence located at 172 Fourah Bay Road, where a large group of people gathered, accusing the pair of behavior that community members claim violates cultural and religious norms. It is alleged that the two were physically attacked during the unrest, though there has been no official medical report or police confirmation regarding their condition.
By the time authorities responded to the scene, the couple had reportedly fled. Attempts by police to invite them for questioning were unsuccessful. In response, a wanted notice was issued, with flyers containing their photographs and names distributed within the Fourah Bay area and surrounding neighborhoods.
A police spokesperson noted, “We have received complaints from several community members regarding acts they believe are in conflict with societal standards. As part of our investigation, we are seeking the cooperation of the individuals involved.”
No formal charges have yet been announced, and law enforcement has not released the specific penal code under which the couple is being sought. However, the police have urged the public to provide any information that may lead to their apprehension, warning that obstruction of justice could result in legal consequences.
Community leaders have also weighed in on the matter, expressing concern over the social consequences of such behavior in a tightly knit and religiously observant community. While no official statements have been issued by religious authorities, local sentiment remains volatile, with some residents calling for strong legal action and others warning of potential mob justice.
Human rights observers have expressed concern about the situation, cautioning that due process must be observed and warning against the risk of extrajudicial punishment. One civil rights group, requesting anonymity for safety reasons, stated, “Regardless of the allegations, no one deserves to be harmed or denied access to justice. The presumption of innocence is a fundamental right.”
Despite these calls, sources close to the area report that the atmosphere remains tense. The house allegedly belonging to the couple has reportedly been vandalized, and there are unconfirmed reports of threats issued to individuals believed to have supported or defended them.
In the absence of official updates from the couple themselves or their legal representatives, much about their current whereabouts and condition remains speculative. As of now, they are considered fugitives by the police, and efforts to locate them are ongoing.
This developing story continues to raise serious questions about the balance between cultural norms, legal enforcement, and human rights in Sierra Leone. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the case will proceed to formal prosecution if the individuals are found.
For now, the Fourah Bay community—and the country at large—awaits clarity on a case that has ignited deep emotions and once again exposed the fragile intersection between identity, law, and public morality.