The government of Sierra Leone confirmed on Sunday morning that a group of “unidentified individuals” attempted to breach the country’s armoury but were promptly arrested.
Chernor Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Culture, signed a release, stating, “PUBLIC NOTICE; Security Update and Nationwide Curfew Announcement; In the early hours of Sunday, November 26th, 2023, some unidentified individuals attempted to break into the military armory at Wilberforce barracks. They have all been rebuffed.
“The public is assured that the government and our state security forces are in control. We strongly advise citizens to stay indoors. Please follow the official Ministry of Information and Civic Education channels and our official handles for accurate information and updates on the situation.”
Between July and August several senior military and police officers were arrested or extradited over a plot against President Bio who was re-elected in June
The recent incident occurs against the backdrop of rising concerns about military breaches and coups in various West African countries. Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic, and Gabon have all experienced coups and are currently under military junta, facing sanctions from both the African Union and international organizations.
