July 22, 2016 By Victoria Saffa
The Deputy Head of Media and Police Relations in the Sierra Leone Police, Inspector Prince Macmillan, has told Concord Times that some 14 people have been arrested in connection with clashes in Bonthe Island between the military and members of the Poro secret society, adding that they were now helping the police with their investigation.
Inspector Macmillan confirmed that the Local Unit Commander in Bonthe yesterday brought the fourteen suspects to Mattru Jong, the mainland.
“Bonthe is now quiet and the police are on top of the situation as calm has returned to the island once again,” he said.
This, following deadly clashes that reportedly left two people shot dead and scores injured, after the Sunday incident, which local sources say was ignited by a palaver between a member of the revered male secret society and a certain lady.
He however noted that the deaths of two people during the skirmish was unfortunate, adding that it was not the first such happening on the island, which hosts a naval base that reportedly came under attack by the Poro society members.
The dead include a 17-year-old boy and an elderly man, who according to report, died from gunshot wounds.
“We will continue to engage stakeholders in the district on the issue and because of the nature of the incident, investigation into the matter will be completed as soon as possible,’’ he said.
The incident last weekend saw an overnight curfew imposed on the Island, which has since been relaxed by the authorities.
The wounded were taken to Matru Jong Government Hospital, while a soldier who was captured and tortured by the men was brought to the 34 Military Hospital for treatment.
Bonthe Island is usually quiet and peaceful. The violent clash last week came as a surprise to many, as a result. The Island is an historic district known for it rich heritage and early contact with European settlers.
Meanwhile, all 14 suspects are expected to be charged to court next week for various public order offences, said another source.