By Mahamood Fofana
Civil society organisations in Moyamba District have called for an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the death of John Patrick Togbie, a teacher and member of the Sierra Leone Police Force, whose death at the Moyamba Police Barracks has sparked growing concern and demands for accountability.
Togbie reportedly died on May 24, 2026, under circumstances that initially generated widespread speculation within the community. Early reports and rumours suggested that he had taken his own life. However, those claims have since been cast into doubt following the release of an official autopsy report, which points to a far more disturbing cause of death.
In a strongly worded press statement, the Moyamba Civil Society Network expressed profound sadness over the incident and alarm at the findings contained in the medical examination report. The group described the case as one that raises serious questions and requires urgent answers from the relevant authorities.
According to the autopsy conducted by the Chief Medical Examiner under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Togbie died from multiple blunt force injuries affecting various parts of his body. The report detailed fractures to the head, neck, chest, and spinal regions, in addition to evidence of manual strangulation and neurogenic shock.
Medical findings reportedly concluded that the injuries were consistent with what was described as a severe and sustained physical assault. The report further indicated the presence of finger-trail excoriations associated with strangulation, findings that have intensified public concern regarding the true circumstances surrounding his death.
Reacting to the revelations, civil society groups said the autopsy findings appear inconsistent with earlier suggestions that the deceased died by suicide. They argued that the nature and extent of the injuries outlined in the report warrant a comprehensive criminal investigation aimed at establishing exactly what transpired before Togbie’s death.
“The community deserves to know the truth. The findings of the autopsy raise serious concerns that cannot be ignored,” the civil society statement noted.
The organisations have called on the Sierra Leone Police and other state authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted professionally, independently, and without interference. They stressed that public confidence in the justice system will depend largely on the transparency and credibility of the investigative process.
In addition to demanding accountability, the groups urged authorities to provide protection for individuals who may possess information relevant to the case. They warned that potential witnesses could be reluctant to come forward without assurances of safety and confidentiality.
The civil society coalition also called for psychosocial support and other forms of assistance for the children and immediate family members of the deceased, noting that the tragic circumstances surrounding Togbie’s death have left loved ones traumatized and seeking answers.
Community members in Moyamba have also joined the call for justice, with many expressing shock over the details contained in the autopsy report. Some residents have urged authorities to expedite the investigation to prevent speculation and restore public confidence.
The death of a police officer within police barracks has attracted significant public attention, with observers noting that the case presents an important test of accountability and transparency within state institutions.
Civil society leaders have vowed to closely monitor developments and continue advocating for justice until all facts surrounding the incident are established.
“We are ready and willing to cooperate with law enforcement agencies throughout the investigation process,” the statement emphasized. “Our objective is to ensure that the truth is uncovered and that justice is served for the deceased and his family.”
As investigations are expected to continue, many residents of Moyamba and observers across the country are awaiting official updates from the authorities regarding the circumstances that led to Togbie’s death and whether any individuals will be held responsible. For now, the questions surrounding what happened inside the Moyamba Police Barracks remain unanswered, while calls for justice and accountability continue to grow
