Sierra Leone To Auction Fugitive’s Property In Landmark EDSA Corruption Recovery

By: Alhaji A. Barrie

Nearly three years after his conviction for embezzling millions from Sierra Leone’s Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), the state is taking decisive action to recover the stolen funds. On December 6, 2025, the prime property of Mohamed Sheku Turay, a former banker turned fugitive, will be placed on public auction in Freetown.

Turay was convicted in 2022 for misappropriating over Le3.9 billion during his tenure at EDSA. Despite a court-imposed fine of Le100 million, he failed to meet the restitution deadline and fled the country, prompting authorities to initiate asset recovery proceedings.

The property in question—a four-story residential and commercial building located at 4A Jones Street, Kissy, Freetown— sits on 0.0602 acres of land. It is considered one of Turay’s most valuable assets and a key target in the effort to recoup public funds.

The auction will be conducted under the authority of the court, and interested buyers are advised to contact the Undersheriff directly for inspection and bidding procedures. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), while instrumental in securing Turay’s conviction, will not be involved in the sale process.

This public auction marks a significant step in Sierra Leone’s ongoing fight against corruption and the pursuit of justice for misused state resources. Proceeds from the sale are expected to be redirected to government accounts to help offset the financial damage inflicted on EDSA.