A tragic disaster struck the New England Ville community on Tuesday evening when a compound fence collapsed following heavy rainfall, claiming three lives and leaving one child still missing.
According to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), the incident occurred at around 6:00 PM at 54 Off Pratt Street. A section of the compound fence, weakened by torrential rain and runoff from the nearby hills, collapsed onto a makeshift structure (commonly referred to as a “pan body”) housing a family of six.
The NDMA’s Rapid Response Team, led by the Director General and other senior personnel, rushed to the scene after receiving alerts through social media and the national 117 emergency line. Search and rescue operations were immediately launched in coordination with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), and community volunteers.
Tragically, three members of the household were swept away by floodwaters and later confirmed dead. The victims include:
- Aminata Sesay, aged 6, found deceased at the scene and transported to the 34 Military Hospital mortuary.
- Sailor Sesay, an adult woman and mother-in-law of the homeowner.
- Aliue Sesay, a 2-year-old boy.
Their bodies were later recovered along downstream areas in the Morjabie and Mordenah communities.
One-year-old Ramatu Turay remains missing as of this morning. Rescue teams, supported by officers from the New England Ville Police Post and security personnel at the Special Court, continued overnight efforts in storm drains and low-lying areas.
The pan body structure is reportedly owned by Mr. Alie Turay, also known as “Bolo,” a serving prison officer and boxer.
The NDMA has confirmed that full-scale search operations will continue, involving multiple agencies in hopes of locating the missing child.
In response to the incident, the NDMA has issued urgent safety guidelines to help reduce risks during the ongoing rainy season. Residents are strongly advised to avoid living in makeshift homes near hillsides, drainage paths, or beneath unstable retaining walls. Families are also reminded to supervise children during heavy rainfall and to steer clear of flood-prone zones.
The Agency further urged the public to report any signs of slope movement or structural cracks and to keep all drains free of waste to reduce flooding risks.
For emergency assistance or to provide information relevant to the ongoing rescue, citizens are encouraged to contact the NDMA via its toll-free hotline at 1199.
