Britain's Decision to Arm Pro-Government Forces Could End Impunity in Sierra Leone

Strategic Insights -

Sierra Leone is embroiled in a decade-long war that has seen tens of thousands of people murdered or mutilated. The war is fueled by the culture of impunity, which has led to the regression of the country's military. According to Colonel Michael Dumbuya, the commander of Sierra Leone's special forces, the pro-government forces, including the Kamajors, desperately need equipment and logistical support to bridge the gap created by the impending departure of British forces. The Revolutionary United Front (RUF), the rebel group, is better equipped and has divided factions, with some wanting to negotiate with the UN and others seeking to fight.

Key Takeaways:

  • The pro-government forces, including the Kamajors, are in dire need of equipment and logistical support to fight against the RUF.
  • The Revolutionary United Front (RUF) is better equipped than the pro-government forces, with access to armoured personnel carriers, AK58s, and mortars.
  • The RUF has been responsible for murdering and mutilating tens of thousands of people, and the culture of impunity has made it challenging to address the war.
  • Colonel Michael Dumbuya, the commander of Sierra Leone's special forces, believes that British direction and expertise have been crucial in the gains made by the pro-government forces.
  • The Kamajors, who are a ragtag group of allies, typically share one weapon, and whoever shoots an enemy is rewarded with their weapon.
  • The Kamajors and allies of the former junta leader, Johnny Paul Koroma, number up to 15,000, including children.
  • The RUF's political leader, Foday Sankoh, is in UN custody, and the group is reportedly divided between those who want to talk to the UN and others who want to fight.
  • Brigadier David Richards, the commander of British forces in Sierra Leone, has recommended the British government to arm the pro-government forces and provide logistical support.

Statistics:

  • At least 10,000 people have been murdered or mutilated in Sierra Leone's 10-year war.
  • The Kamajors and allies of Johnny Paul Koroma number up to 15,000, including children.
  • 800 British paratroopers and 700 Royal Marines have arrived in Sierra Leone to support the pro-government forces.
  • The RUF has gained armoured personnel carriers, AK58s, and mortars, which have been used against the pro-government forces.

Sources:

  • Colonel Michael Dumbuya, commander of Sierra Leone's special forces.
  • Robert Foot, part of a British Ministry of Defence advisory team arriving in Sierra Leone.
  • Brigadier David Richards, the commander of British forces in Sierra Leone.
  • A pilot who flies regularly to the interior of Sierra Leone.