By Alhaji Turay

Freetown, Sierra Leone — Police have declared Abdul Bangura, also known as Aziz, owner of an internet café at 150 Upper Philip Street, Wellington, wanted in connection with the August 10, 2022 protest that left dozens dead and caused widespread destruction.

According to police sources, Bangura allegedly used his printing business to produce T-shirts and placards that were distributed to opposition supporters and aggrieved youths during the violent demonstrations.

On Thursday, August 13, 2022, officers from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) conducted raids at Bangura’s residence and business premises in Wellington but were unable to locate him. The police subsequently listed him among the prime suspects on a wanted notice.

The August 10 protest erupted over mounting economic hardship. The government described it as a “well-orchestrated insurrection” intended to topple the administration. Amnesty International later reported that security forces used excessive force, resulting in the deaths of more than 20 civilians and six police officers. A nationwide curfew was imposed by the Vice President following the unrest.

Police investigations later suggested that Bangura may have fled to Waterloo, but a subsequent raid failed to locate him. His current whereabouts remain unknown.

Family sources disclosed that Bangura lost his parents and sister during the Ebola outbreak, leaving him with limited family support. He and several others linked to the protest remain at large as police efforts to apprehend them continue.