Freetown, 28th January 2026 — The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have confirmed the arrest of Kandeh Sesay, a suspected fugitive who escaped custody during the November 26 failed coup attempt.
Sesay, described by police as a “notorious criminal,” was captured on Tuesday, 27 January, following intelligence-led operations in the Mount Aureol and Leicester communities.
According to police records, Sesay was serving a sentence at the Male Correctional Centre, Pademba Road, before breaking free amid the disturbances linked to the coup. He had remained at large for two months.
The arrest was carried out by personnel of the Operation Support Division (OSD), who acted swiftly on credible intelligence to secure his capture.
Police leadership is now working closely with the Sierra Leone Correctional Service to verify Sesay’s identity and prepare the next steps in the legal process.
The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing security operations following the November 26 coup attempt, which saw several inmates escape custody. Authorities say efforts are continuing to track down other fugitives still at large.
