By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has confirmed a fatal shooting incident at the Armed Forces Training Centre (AFTC) in Benguema, which resulted in the deaths of a senior military officer and a junior soldier.

In an official statement issued from Defence Headquarters at Cockerill Barracks in Freetown, Lieutenant Colonel Yayah Brima Esq, Director of Defence Public Relations and Information, said the incident occurred at about 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

The statement said RSLAF was saddened by the development and provided preliminary details indicating that the junior soldier , a Corporal, popularly known as “No. 9,” allegedly shot and killed his superior officer, Major Abdul Larkoh.

According to the report, immediately after the shooting, the Corporal allegedly attempted to take his own life in an apparent effort to avoid arrest, investigation and prosecution.

“While in a helpless state, the said Corporal Kamara was arrested and rushed to the 34 Military Hospital for treatment,” the statement continued. However, RSLAF confirmed that he was pronounced dead on arrival, bringing the total number of deaths from the incident to two.

The Armed Forces Training Centre in Benguema is widely considered one of Sierra Leone’s most important military institutions, serving as a key hub for the training, development and professional discipline of personnel across the armed forces. As such, the reported killing of a senior officer within the confines of such a facility has triggered heightened public interest and concern.

Security analysts note that incidents involving firearms within a controlled military environment are uncommon, but when they occur, they raise critical questions about internal protocols, command supervision and the effectiveness of early warning mechanisms designed to detect and prevent threats from within.

The deaths of Major Abdul Larkoh and Corporal Kamara have also prompted renewed discussions on personnel welfare, mental health support and grievance management systems within security institutions, particularly in high-pressure environments where disputes can escalate rapidly if not addressed early.

In response, the RSLAF leadership has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances leading to the shooting and subsequent developments.

“The general public will be updated as the facts unfold,” the statement assured, adding that the military remains committed to keeping citizens informed as the inquiry progresses.

At the time of reporting, the RSLAF had not released further information regarding the motive for the shooting or whether additional persons had been detained for questioning. The military also did not confirm any administrative actions beyond the investigation order.

Meanwhile, the tragic incident has drawn expressions of sympathy from members of the public, with many offering condolences to the families of the deceased and calling for a thorough, transparent and timely investigation to establish the facts and prevent similar occurrences in the future. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/two-dead-after-shooting-incident-at-armed-forces-training-centre-in-benguema/