The Human Rights Commission Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has condemned the alleged assault on Tony Samuel Ojeah, a distribution manager for the Guma Valley Water Company, by some men of the National Fire Force which led to the former’s subsequent death on May 30.
The commission further condemns the alleged assault, as this has resulted in a serious human rights violation and lawlessness by individuals especially against public officials who are performing their duties.
They state in a press release that Section 15 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone provides that “every person in Sierra Leone is entitled to the fundamental human rights and freedom of the individual, that is to say, he/she has the right … to life, liberty…”
The HRCSL further cites Article 3 in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights which also makes provision for the right of life of every individual which also includes right to life, liberty and security.
They state that impunity has been a growing concern nationwide as it is a contributing factor to a sense of insecurity and lack of confidence in law enforcement agencies, and so they are calling on the government and the police to ensure that the alleged perpetrators are brought to justice speedily.
HRCSL reveals that its mandate and responsibility are to promote and protect human rights.
The government also views the inhumane act as the purpose for which the Fire Force personnel were collecting the water was for selling for their personnel benefit.
Meanwhile, five suspects have been arrested and are currently helping the police with their investigations into the matter.
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