By Desmond Lewis
Freetown, Sierra Leone — June 28, 2025: Amnesty International has called on the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and the police to immediately investigate serious allegations of sexual exploitation involving three underage girls and a prominent businessman, amid growing public concern.
In an exclusive interview, Jiah Kaikai, Growth and Campaign Coordinator for Amnesty International Sierra Leone, expressed grave concern over what he described as a “disturbing case of alleged sexual abuse” involving a Lebanese national, Ahmed Basha—also referred to as Ahmad Badma—who operates a restaurant on Wilkinson Road in Freetown.
In a formal letter sent to the ministry, Amnesty urged urgent action, citing reports that Basha allegedly harbored three minor girls at his residence for a week, during which they were subjected to ongoing sexual exploitation and reportedly drugged.
“We write to humbly request an urgent investigation… According to sources from social media outlets, the girls were subjected to constant sexual exploitation under the influence of hard drugs at his residence,” the letter stated.
Kaikai emphasized that as a global human rights movement with over 20 million members worldwide, Amnesty International remains committed to ensuring justice, accountability, and protection of vulnerable groups, particularly children. He further stressed the need for the state to uphold its obligation under international and national laws to protect minors from exploitation and abuse.
“This case deserves immediate investigation and, if the allegations are proven, swift justice. We appeal to the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs—as the parent body—to champion this cause and support the survivors,” Kaikai asserted.
Meanwhile, efforts to reach the businessman for comment at his restaurant have been unsuccessful.
Police sources confirmed that Basha, 57, and seven other individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. A formal complaint was filed on June 22 at the Lumley Police Station, prompting the swift transfer of the case to the Criminal Investigations Department due to its sensitive nature and public interest.
The accused are being investigated for various charges, including harboring minors, sexual penetration, and meeting with children for sexual purposes. The three girls—aged 17, 16, and 16—have undergone medical evaluations, though the use of substances has not yet been officially confirmed.
As public scrutiny intensifies, Amnesty International has reiterated its demand for transparent proceedings and comprehensive support for the survivors. The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs is yet to respond publicly to the letter or confirm whether an inquiry has been launched.
This case has reignited national conversations around child protection, exploitation, and the need for timely, victim-centered justice.