HRCSL warns speculators on Alima’s death

The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has warned that people should avoid speculations over the death of Alima as this will prejudice the outcome of the investigations by the coroner.
A HRCSL press release recalls that on 25th October 2007 there were violent public reactions, including attacks on the lives and property of individuals following reports of the alleged suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Alima Sheriff Kamara and the status of police investigations into her death.
The HRCSL says it promptly initiated a dialogue with the police on the same day with a view to restoring order, to enquire about the status of police investigations and to emphasize public interest in the matter.
The HRCSL points out that as a result of reports and complaints it received on the issue, it duly informed the police of its intention to investigate the allegations and solicited their cooperation.
It notes that it was of the view that the alleged circumstances of the death of Alima Sheriff was a proper case for investigation by a coroner and recommended that a coroner’s inquest be held in accordance with section 7 of the Coroners Act.
The HRCSL also gives assistance to the Law Officer’s Department following a court order to obtain the services of a pathologist and forensic analyst to conduct a second post mortem examination of the body of the deceased to ascertain the probable cause of death.
The HRCSLsays further that it identified a suitable qualified and experienced pathologist and through the assistance of the United Nations Peace Building Fund facilitated a second post mortem examination.
It reveals that a team of pathologists have performed the second post mortem examination and are currently undertaking further laboratory tests after which a report on their findings will be presented to the Coroner at the Coroner’s inquest.
The HRCSL warns that everybody should respect the pending court proceedings and refrain from statements and conduct that might prejudice the outcome of the investigations by the coroner.