By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, July 28, 2026: – The Independent Police Complaints Board (IPCB) has recommended a Coroner’s Inquest into the death of Abdulai Kallon, a member of the Bike Riders Union (BRU), who died while in police custody in Kailahun.
The IPCB investigation concluded that Kallon’s death could not be attributed to police gunfire. Instead, findings suggest he may have succumbed to exhaustion from injuries allegedly sustained after being beaten by a group of youths before his arrest.
Background to the Case
On June 21, 2026, a riot in Kailahun led to the burning of the Police Barracks. The IPCB launched an investigation on July 22 under Regulation 9 of the IPCB Regulations 2013 into allegations of police shooting and riotous conduct. Regulation 3(1)(3) mandates the Board to investigate incidents where police officers discharge firearms or where a person dies in police custody.
Findings
The IPCB report highlighted several lapses:
- Poor judgment by arresting officers – Officers failed to ensure Kallon received immediate medical treatment, prioritizing prosecution instead.
- Negligence by senior officers – Authorities in the Eastern Region released the body to family members without a post-mortem examination.
- Weak eyewitness testimony – Witnesses feared prosecution, making it impossible to conclusively establish the cause of death.
Recommendations
The IPCB urged the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to initiate a Coroner’s Inquest to determine the actual cause of death. Additional recommendations include:
- Corrective training for officers to strengthen professional judgment and compliance with procedures.
- Prosecution of civilians implicated in incitement and attempted robbery during the unrest.
Official Response
IPCB Chairman Mr. Saa Kpulun presented the report to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq., on July 23 at the Ministry’s Gloucester office. Lengor praised the Board’s work, describing the investigation as “a job well done,” and promised to provide feedback after reviewing the findings.