By Daybreak Media
According to police sources, investigations are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident, which is said to have contravened the laws of Sierra Leone. The police say Miss Mansaray is currently on the run and have appealed to members of the public with relevant information on her whereabouts to report to the nearest police station.
In a strong statement issued to the public, the Sierra Leone Police warned community members against taking the law into their own hands, stressing that mob justice is a criminal offence and will be dealt with firmly. This warning follows comments reportedly made by some community members who told this media outlet that they would carry out mob (jungle) justice on Fatmata Mansaray if she is captured.
“The police are fully aware of the public interest and emotions surrounding this matter,” a police spokesperson said. “However, we want to clearly caution everyone that the law must be allowed to take its course. Any attempt to harm, assault, or unlawfully punish a suspect is itself a serious crime.”
The police further emphasized that only the courts of law have the authority to determine guilt or innocence, and that suspects are entitled to due process under the Constitution. They warned that anyone found inciting violence, spreading threats, or participating in mob action will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.
Community tensions reportedly heightened following rumors and unverified claims circulating in parts of Waterloo and Goderich about the alleged incident. Civil society voices and local leaders have also begun calling for calm, urging residents to cooperate with law enforcement rather than resorting to violence.
Human rights observers have repeatedly warned that mob justice not only violates the rights of suspects but also undermines the rule of law and often leads to the loss of innocent lives. In recent years, the Sierra Leone Police have intensified public awareness campaigns against jungle justice, describing it as a growing threat to peace and national cohesion.
The Sierra Leone Police reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order and assured the public that investigations into the alleged incident are being handled professionally. They encouraged anyone with credible information to assist the police through lawful channels and to avoid spreading misinformation that could inflame tensions.
As the search for Fatmata Mansaray continues, authorities are appealing for restraint, cooperation, and respect for the law, reminding citizens that justice must be served through legal means, not violence.
