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Reports reaching this newspaper indicate that the paternal family residence of Dolcy Marie Abu-Mattia, located at Kulanda Town, Nduvuibu Section, Gbetima Village, Bo District, Southern Province of Sierra Leone, has allegedly been deliberately set ablaze by unidentified women amid escalating tensions surrounding the Bondo secret society.

According to close family sources who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, the attack occurred after Dolcy reportedly fled into hiding following repeated threats to her life by persons believed to be associated with the Bondo society. Sources alleged that Dolcy was declared wanted after refusing to be initiated as the next “Head Sowei” and succeed her paternal grandmother, Marie Bangalie, a highly influential and respected leader within the society.

Family members disclosed that Dolcy had consistently resisted pressure to participate in the Bondo society and openly opposed the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), which forms part of the society’s traditional initiation rites. Human rights organizations have long condemned Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) because of the severe physical and psychological harm associated with the practice, including excessive bleeding, infections, trauma, childbirth complications, and, in some cases, death. Despite international criticism, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains legal in Sierra Leone and continues to be widely practiced in several communities under the protection of traditional secret societies.

Relatives further stated that members of Dolcy’s paternal family insisted she must inherit the leadership position in keeping with longstanding family tradition. Sources also revealed that both Dolcy and her daughter were expected to undergo initiation rites as part of the process. Her refusal reportedly generated hostility within sections of the community, where some individuals viewed her actions as a rejection of family obligations, cultural authority, and traditional customs tied to her paternal lineage.

According to relatives, threats against Dolcy intensified in November last year when unidentified persons allegedly began visiting the paternal family home demanding her whereabouts and warning that she would face serious consequences if she refused to comply. Family members alleged that several threats were made against her life, forcing her to flee the community and remain in hiding for her personal safety.

Sources alleged that tension escalated dramatically on the eve of Sierra Leone Independence Day when a group of unidentified women stormed the Bangalie family residence demanding that Dolcy be produced. Witnesses claimed that when relatives informed them that her whereabouts were unknown, the confrontation turned violent. During the incident, one of the women allegedly shouted, “Burn the house down,” after which the family residence was intentionally set on fire.

Residents described scenes of panic and chaos as flames rapidly engulfed the property, forcing occupants and nearby residents to flee for safety. The attack reportedly destroyed valuables and significant portions of the family home. No deaths have officially been reported, though relatives say the incident has left the family traumatized and living in fear.

The matter has reportedly been formally reported to the police, and investigations are said to be ongoing. However, as of the time of publication, no arrests have been announced and authorities have yet to issue an official public statement regarding the incident.

Family members insist that the burning of the house, the repeated threats, and the pressure placed on Dolcy to submit to initiation demonstrate the serious dangers she faces should she return to the community.