In the early morning hours of Saturday, April 20 2024, businesspeople at Gbense Market in Koidu City, Kono District found themselves amidst a sudden and unexpected security presence.

Reports indicate that the market became a no-go zone as security forces took control to ensure the safety of both lives and property.

According to eyewitnesses, the market was disrupted by a group of individuals brandishing placards and chanting demands for the return of their elected chairman, Sellu. Their message, “WE NEED OUR ELECTED CHAIRMAN SELLU OR NO BUSINESS,” echoed through the market, stirring panic among the vendors and shoppers alike.

The situation was ignited by the leadership struggle following recent elections, with the incumbent chairman still occupying the position while awaiting official confirmation of the results which has created tension within the community leading to effect of security presence to ensure stability in saving and protecting the lives and properties of the people.

The event was protected by the security forces and no causality was reported in the process. However, the disruption has undoubtedly left a significant impact on the livelihoods of the business community in Gbense Market.

As residents await further developments and resolution of the leadership dispute, authorities are urged to swiftly address the underlying issues to prevent any escalation of tensions and to restore normalcy to the affected area.

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