Sierra Leone's government has implemented a nationwide curfew following a reported security breach at a military armory in the capital, Freetown. The breach, carried out by unidentified attackers, resulted in armed clashes that prompted the imposition of the curfew.

Sierra Leone, a West African nation with English as its official language, is currently experiencing a political crisis stemming from the presidential and general elections held earlier this year in June.

According to witnesses who spoke to AFP, gunshots and explosions were heard in Freetown's Wilberforce district, where the military armoury and some embassies are situated. Additionally, there were reports of gunfire exchanges near barracks in the Murray Town district, housing the navy, and outside another military site within Freetown.

The Ministry of Information has asserted that "the government remains in control and on top of the situation." This statement followed earlier reports of attacks on prisons, which forced security forces to withdraw. The situation is evolving, and the government is actively monitoring and managing the crisis.

The prisons in Sierra Leone were reportedly overrun, leading to the release of some detainees and the abduction of others, as per the information ministry. Social media videos indicated a significant number of prisoners escaping from the central jail. Security forces have reportedly pushed the attackers to the outskirts of the capital, with ongoing clashes in the Jui area.

The capital's streets appeared empty in drone footage, with security forces deployed to block access to the city center. The authorities have not provided comments on the motives or identity of the attackers.

President Julius Maada Bio posted on X, previously known as Twitter, announcing that the government would. "Continue to protect the peace and security of Sierra Leone against the forces that wish to truncate our much-cherished stability". "We remain resolute in our determination to protect democracy in Sierra Leone."

The government, having repelled attempts to breach the armory, urged the public to stay at home amid ongoing security operations. Information Minister Chernor Bah affirmed government control and declared an immediate nationwide curfew to aid in apprehending suspects. The UK and the European Union endorsed this advice.

Meanwhile, Sierra Leone's airspace remains open but the civil aviation authority recommended rescheduling flights post-curfew. President Bio re-elected in June amid criticism of electoral inconsistencies, violence, and intimidation, faces political tensions with the opposition APC party. A mediated agreement in October ended the APC's boycott, fostering government participation.

Image source: AFP