By Karifa Thoronka

In a harrowing escape, Alusine Ibrahim Jah narrowly avoided a potentially fatal encounter with hostile political forces.

Jah, a resident of Freetown, had been outspoken about the various hardships facing Sierra Leone, including unemployment, the high cost of living, and inflation.

His activism made him a target for authorities.In August 2022, female street vendors held a peaceful protest against the soaring cost of living.

Their demonstration was joined by hundreds of political protesters on Wednesday, leading to violent clashes with the police. According to a police statement, at least four officers were killed, and an unknown number of protesters also lost their lives.

Reports reaching the press indicate that Jah, who was actively exposing these issues, was declared wanted by the Sierra Leone Police for incitement, riotous conduct, and organizing an unlawful protest without police permission.A close family member revealed that Jah was on the run before eventually fleeing the country.

“He vowed never to return to Sierra Leone,” the family member stated.Musa Sesay, a community elder, mentioned that Jah decided not to return home upon learning that those in police custody were to be charged with riotous conduct, murder, and attempted coup against the current government.

As of press time, the whereabouts of Alusine Ibrahim Jah remain unknown.