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Fugitive Former Military Officer Extradited to Guinea

Guinea’s most sought-after fugitive, a former high-ranking military official, has been extradited from Liberia, along with his son, as announced by local authorities. Ex-Colonel Claude Pivi, who escaped from prison last November, is now set to serve his life sentence following his conviction in absentia for his involvement in a notorious massacre of opposition supporters in Conakry in 2009.

Pivi and his son, Verny Pivi, were apprehended at the border during a routine security check on Tuesday. Reports indicate that the elder Pivi appeared frail and was handcuffed beside his son, who faces accusations of facilitating his father’s escape.

In a related event, ex-military leader Moussa Dadis Camara, who was also released, was rapidly recaptured. Camara is currently serving a 20-year sentence for crimes against humanity.

The convictions of both Pivi and Camara stem from the tragic events of September 2009, when Guinean troops opened fire on an opposition rally, leading to the deaths of over 156 individuals and numerous incidents of sexual violence against women.

Pivi, known as “Coplan,” was previously the minister of presidential security during Camara’s rule. The Guinean authorities had placed a bounty of approximately $58,000 (£43,700) for information leading to his capture.

This week, Colonel Aly Camara, Guinea’s military prosecutor, confirmed that Pivi has been returned to the central prison in Conakry, where he will fulfill his life sentence. “He was brought back to the central prison to serve his sentence in accordance with the law,” the prosecutor stated.

Fatoumata Diariou Camara, a victim of the 2009 violence, expressed her relief over Pivi’s recapture, stating, “I am overjoyed that he has been caught. I pray that he will remain in prison forever.”

Implications of Pivi’s Recapture

The recapture of Pivi holds significant implications for justice and accountability in Guinea, a nation that has faced several challenges in reconciling its tumultuous past with its aspirations for peace and democracy. As the country seeks to address the atrocities committed during Camara’s regime, the legal proceedings surrounding figures like Pivi are central to the broader narrative of national healing.

Recent developments highlight the importance of international collaboration in thwarting fugitives and ensuring that justice prevails for victims of political violence. As Guinea continues to navigate its path towards stability, the actions taken by law enforcement in capturing Pivi also send a message regarding the commitment to uphold the rule of law.

Source
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