352 prisoners, including 11 women and a controversial rap star, have been released by Sierra Leone authorities following a New Year’s Day pardon from President Julius Maada Bio.
The move follows an alleged coup attempt on November 26, in which armed attackers raided a military armoury, two barracks, two prisons, and two police stations, resulting in confrontations with security forces.
The violence led to 21 deaths and approximately 2,000 prisoners escaping from the main Freetown prison before authorities regained control.
The government has reported the arrest of 85 individuals, predominantly military personnel, in connection with the attacks.
One of the fugitives was the controversial rapper Alhaji Amadu Bah, also known as Boss LAJ, who was serving a nine-year sentence for robbery.
However, he voluntarily surrendered himself to authorities at the Freetown prison, urging his followers to “Respect the peace and the law.”
“Today, the president has released our brother King Boss La and 351 other inmates across the country,” stated Information and Civic Education Minister Chernor Bah in a release to AFP.
“The president utilized his powers based on a committee’s recommendation that followed due process,” added Bah, who is not related to the singer.
“Our brother demonstrated good civic citizenship when he returned to prison after being forcibly released during the failed coup on November 26, and he has committed to advocating for the betterment of Sierra Leone,” Bah commented.
Colonel Sheik Massaquoi, director general of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, disclosed that some of the freed inmates were serving time for “minor crimes” and had the potential for early release based on good behavior.
“The Freetown prison facilities are overcrowded, and there is an urgent necessity for relocation,” Massaquoi informed reporters.
During his time in prison, Bah and other inmates produced a song addressing the widespread issue of the highly addictive drug kush, which has resulted in numerous deaths among the young population of Sierra Leone.
“I’m happy for my release today. I want peace and changes in my country,” expressed Bah, who had gained recognition for his song lyrics criticizing Bio’s administration.
Upon his release, the rapper was greeted by dozens of enthusiastic supporters donning “Welcome Home LAJ” T-shirts.
AFP
