@provider.002: Sierra Leone Correctional Service Dismisses Death Reports, Confirms Zainab Sheriff Is Alive The Sierra Leone Correctional Service has officially refuted social media claims regarding the death of detained musician, activist, and opposition political figure Zainab Sheriff. In an official statement, authorities described the circulating reports as "Fake News" and confirmed that Sheriff is "reliably alive" and recovering from a recent illness for which she received medical attention. Background to the Detention Ms. Sheriff, a prominent entertainer and chairperson of the Wi Duti civic movement, was arrested in February 2026 following remarks she made at a political gathering in Freetown. Prosecutors argued that statements she made during the rally—concerning election integrity and its consequences—constituted incitement and threatening language under Sierra Leone's Public Order Act of 1965. After pleading not guilty and being denied bail on multiple occasions throughout the proceedings, Sheriff was sentenced on 14 April 2026 to four years and two months' imprisonment by a Freetown Magistrate's Court. Her legal team has since filed an appeal, which the High Court has permitted to proceed for full judicial consideration. Official Reassurance The Correctional Service has reaffirmed that Sheriff remains in custody and is receiving appropriate care, stressing that the welfare of all inmates is a priority. Authorities have encouraged the public and media to rely exclusively on verified information from official sources rather than unsubstantiated social media posts regarding individuals in state custody.

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Monday 17 August 2026 23:53:50 GMT