By Richmond B. Tholley
A reported skirmish in the afternoon hours of Wednesday, 8th January 2025, has left six youths known to be supporters and members of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party in Bumbuna town, in the Northern District of Tonkolili, with wounds and injuries and subsequently hospitalized.
The Secretary General of the Sierra Leone People’s Party in Tonkolili District has confirmed the story to be true and correct. Robert Salia Kamara said six of the party’s youths were attacked this afternoon by men under the command of the Youth Chairman of Dasogoia Chiefdom, John B. Cole.
According to reports, Cole, Dasogoia Chiefdom Youth Chairman has been engaging in illegal mining of gold around the Rokel River in Tonkolili District.
For a long time now, residents living around the River Rokel have raised concerns about the detrimental effects of these activities on their water supply and overall health.
In spite of all their concerns and pleas for authorities to stop the illegal mining in the area, the practice is continuous with no respect for the human rights and safety of the locals.
There have been allegations that known members of the ruling party are sponsoring the alleged illegal mining in the area, thereby contaminating the river and thus risking the lives of residents.
Recently, allegations had it that Cole, the detained youth chairman, was among those doing illegal mining along the river. The allegations further suggest that Cole was doing so with the backing of some senior members of the party.
Residents have also accused John Cole of leading foreign illegal miners around the river.
This action, residents said, is harming the community’s water resources and risking their existence as humans.
Reports say his actions are motivated by personal gain, enriching himself at the expense of the local population.
The January 8, 2025, incident that left scores of the party youths hospitalized occurred after attempts by some SLPP loyalists, including the party’s last local council candidate in the area, Francis Sesay, to halt the illegal mining were met with violence.
According to the Secretary General in Tonkolili District, John Cole and his associates attacked Sesay and six others with machetes, resulting in serious injuries.
“The victims are currently receiving treatment at the Magburaka Government Hospital,” the party District Secretary General said.
The situation, SLPP Secretary-General said, has escalated to the point where it has been reported to the Magburaka Police Station for further investigation.
Kamara, the party’s secretary, confirmed the youth chairman is in detention at the Magburaka Police Division. Kamara said they can’t sit by and allow certain people hiding under the party to engage in illegal mining and contaminate the rivers.
“Therefore, we’re behind the police to investigate this matter and bring to book those responsible,” the SLPP District Secretary said in a WhatsApp message.
Efforts to reach the Magburaka Police Division over the phone prove futile.
This is a developing story; this medium will further update you on the latest surrounding the investigation or its outcome.
