Freetown, 29th July 2026 -The Independent Police Complaints Board (IPCB) has called for 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.
In its investigation report, the IPCB concluded that Kallon’s death could not be attributed to police gunfire, as initially alleged. Instead, findings suggest he may have succumbed to exhaustion from injuries reportedly sustained after being beaten by a group of youths before his arrest.
The probe was launched on 22 July under Regulation 9 of the IPCB Regulations 2013, following claims of police shooting and the riotous conduct that led to the burning of the Kailahun Police Barracks on 21 June.
The IPCB report faulted police officers for poor professional judgment, noting they failed to secure immediate medical treatment for the injured suspect and instead prioritized prosecution. It also highlighted negligence by senior officers in the Eastern Region, who released Kallon’s body for burial without a post-mortem examination.
The absence of an autopsy, coupled with weak eyewitness testimony, hampered by fears of prosecution, made it impossible to conclusively establish the cause of death.
In light of these gaps, the IPCB recommended that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) initiate a Coroner’s Inquest to determine the actual cause of death. The Board also urged corrective training for the officers involved to strengthen professional judgment and compliance with procedures.
Additionally, the report called for the prosecution of certain civilians accused of incitement and attempted robbery during the unrest.
Presenting the report to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor, Esq., IPCB Chairman Saa Kpulun described the investigation as thorough and impartial. Minister Lengor commended the Board for “a job well done” and pledged to provide feedback after reviewing the findings.
