By Alieu Amara Suwu
Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) has noted with grave concern a video clip making the rounds on social media of a certain individual wearing the Authority’s regalia, purporting to be a staff of EDSA but is seen misbehaving under the influence of drugs, that he is neither a staff of EDSA nor is he working for any of its auxiliaries.
The Authority stated however, being that the general public has perceived the person in question as a staff of the Authority; the Management would hereby commit itself to taking steps to investigate the matter. In that regard, the Authority further noted that the Sierra Leone Police has launched a search operation for the man identified in the video and once apprehended, would be investigated to ascertain how he got the Authority’s workplace regalia.
The Authority asserted that they are mindful of the health and well-being of their employees and therefore periodically organises health lectures focusing on the health of their employees, including the use and abuse of drugs.
Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) acted rigidly by swiftly sending off a police officer and two military officers caught on a video camera teetering under the influence of drug (probably Kush) that spread widely and caught the keen attention of the general public.
The SLP states in a press dated 4th November 2022, that as a discipline Institution, they acted swiftly to ascertain not only the veracity of the video but also identified the Police Officer portrayed therein. They added that the Police Officer (defaulter) seen in the video was identified as Police Constable 18654 Alie Sankoh attached to the Kissy Police Division, Freetown. It was confirmed in the release that he was charged with; being under the influence of drugs and alcohol whilst on duty and conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline. It also confirmed the Police Officer pleaded guilty of five counts charges and thus was dismissed in accordance with the Police (Discipline) Regulations, 2021.
Moreover, the RSLAF also dismissed two Non-Commissioned Officers, whose video went viral teetering under the influence of hard substance known as Kush. Lieutenant Colonel Robin, Commanding Officer of RSLAF of the 5 Infantry Battalion said the Officers were given dismissed because they abandoned their duty posts and engaged in acts that undermine good military order and discipline. The two dismissed Officers are RSLAF 18169900 Sergeant Samura and RSLAF 18181489 Lance Corporal Kallon.
