Sierra Leone: Prison Break and Gunshots Prompt Nationwide Curfew

George Christian Boadi November 26, 2023 0

In a developing security crisis, Sierra Leone has imposed a nationwide curfew following an alarming incident where armed individuals forcibly entered a prison, resulting in the release of inmates. The break-in occurred at the Central Padema Road prison in Freetown, the capital city, on Sunday morning.

Prior to the prison break, the same group targeted a military barracks in the city, prompting residents to report gunfire in the vicinity of the barracks, situated close to the presidential lodge. The incident, unfolding in the early hours of Sunday, November 26, 2023, involved unidentified individuals who were met with resistance from security forces.

Journalist Umaru Fofana reported on Twitter, "Heavy gunfire in the #SierraLeone capital, Freetown. The sounds appear to be coming from the main military barracks at Wilberforce, close to the president’s lodge. Details are sketchy but a senior military source says there has been a breakage into the armory at Wilberforce."

Responding to the escalating situation, the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, issued a public notice, announcing the imposition of a nationwide curfew with immediate effect. Chernor A. Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, assured the public that the government and state security forces are in control.

The notice urged citizens to stay indoors during the curfew period, emphasizing the government's commitment to addressing the security concerns. According to the Minister, the unidentified individuals attempting to break into the military armory at Wilberforce barracks had been rebuffed by security forces.

"To enable the security forces to continue the process of apprehending the suspects, a nationwide curfew is declared with immediate effect across the country. We strongly advise citizens to stay indoors," the notice concluded.

As Sierra Leone grapples with this unfolding crisis, details remain sketchy, and the imposition of a nationwide curfew underscores the gravity of the situation. The government's swift response seeks to restore order and ensure the safety of citizens in the face of these alarming incidents.