Kenema, Sierra Leone – 3 September 2025 – The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr William Fayia Sellu, has expressed deep sympathy to the family of the late Rev. Fr. Augustine Dauda Amadu and to the Catholic Church following the priest’s alleged killing by armed robbers in Kenema.
During a condolence visit to the Catholic Pastoral Centre in Kenema, IGP Sellu assured the Catholic community that the tragic death of Rev. Fr. Amadu would not simply be counted as a crime statistic but would form part of active prosecution efforts.
Fr. Amadu was killed in the early hours of Sunday, 31 August 2025, at the Burma Section in Kenema. The police chief vowed that the matter would be thoroughly investigated, stressing that the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is determined to identify both the perpetrators and their motive.
“This was a heinous act, and we will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” IGP Sellu declared.
He also acknowledged the grief and anxiety within the Catholic community, assuring clergy members of their safety. Linking the incident to recent armed robberies in Bo and Freetown, the IGP described the attacks as an unfortunate contrast to Sierra Leone’s reputation as one of the most peaceful countries in Africa—ranked 5th on the continent, 3rd in West Africa, and 1st within the Mano River Union.
IGP Sellu disclosed that suspects arrested in connection with the Freetown robberies are already facing trial, underlining the SLP’s commitment to tackling violent crime across the country.
Responding on behalf of the Catholic clergy, the Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Stephen Tamba Kumasi, expressed concern over rising insecurity and cited several cases of theft targeting church facilities. He, however, commended the IGP for his swift intervention and assurances.
As part of his visit, the police chief also toured the crime scene with investigators and church officials to review developments in the ongoing investigation.
SLP Media Team
