A military armoury in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, faced an attack on Sunday morning, suspected to be a coup attempt, leading the government to swiftly impose a nationwide curfew.
The targeted armoury, situated at a major army barracks in the Wilberforce district, encountered individuals attempting to break in, prompting a forceful response from security forces. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and explosions in the affected area, which is also home to several embassies in the capital.
Additional reports indicated exchanges of gunfire near a barracks in the Murray Town district, housing the navy, and outside another military site within Freetown. Information Minister Chernor Bah addressed the situation in an official statement, confirming the attempted breach at the Wilberforce barracks.
“In the early hours of Sunday, some unidentified individuals attempted to break into the military armoury at the Wilberforce barracks. They have been rebuffed,” Minister Bah stated, assuring the public of the government’s control over the situation.
To facilitate the ongoing process of apprehending the suspects and maintaining public safety, the Sierra Leonean government swiftly declared a nationwide curfew with immediate effect. Minister Bah emphasized, “We strongly advise citizens to stay indoors.”
The “public notice” urged citizens to cooperate with the security forces and abide by the curfew to ensure a swift and orderly resolution to the situation. The government’s decisive actions underscore its commitment to preserving stability and security in the face of the apparent threat to the military infrastructure in the capital.
As events continue to unfold, the nation watches closely, and international observers monitor developments in Sierra Leone amid concerns over the implications of the attempted attack on the country’s democratic stability.
