The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has issued a public statement to clarify what happened after Corporal Kamara, also known as “No. 9,” shot and killed his superior officer, Major Larkoh, on January 14, 2026.
According to RSLAF, a video circulating on social media claims that Corporal Kamara was killed by the military after his arrest. The army says this claim is false. RSLAF described the video as a prank meant to damage the reputation of the armed forces and create doubt about its respect for human rights.
RSLAF explained that initial investigations show that on the morning of January 14, Corporal Kamara confronted Major Larkoh aggressively. Witnesses say he openly threatened to kill his superior, saying, “You are a dead man.” Moments later, Corporal Kamara fired three shots at close range. Major Larkoh fell to the ground and died before he could receive medical help.
After shooting his superior, Corporal Kamara then tried to take his own life. RSLAF said this was an attempt to avoid arrest, investigation, and prosecution. He was found in a critical condition and taken into medical custody. Soldiers and medical staff tried to save his life and rushed him to the 34 Military Hospital. Sadly, he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The armed forces stressed that Corporal Kamara was not tortured or killed by the military. RSLAF said the video being shared online does not show the real scene of his death and may be from past violent conflicts in Sierra Leone.
RSLAF also used the statement to assure the public that it does not torture its personnel, no matter how serious the offence. The military said its policy is to arrest suspects and hand them over for a fair trial.
To support this claim, RSLAF cited recent examples. Two months ago, another soldier, Corporal Stevens, shot and killed his superior, Warrant Officer Class 1 Moses Brima Kabba, in Lungi. Corporal Stevens was arrested after a manhunt, handed over to the police, and is now standing trial at the Freetown Magistrate Court. He was not tortured.
RSLAF also referred to the failed coup of November 26, 2023. Several serving and retired soldiers, including the ringleader Amadu Koita Makalo, were arrested, investigated, prosecuted, and sentenced. Even though 18 security personnel were killed during that incident, none of the accused were tortured to death.
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The armed forces concluded by assuring the public that a full investigation will be carried out into the deaths of both Major Larkoh and Corporal Kamara. RSLAF said it remains committed to transparency, discipline, and respect for human rights
