The Sierra Leonean Fullah community convened a press conference on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown to address what they described as the targeted harassment and mass arrests of Fullahs by security forces.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday, December 15, has sparked outrage among the Fullah community and beyond.

Abdulai Barrie, chairman of the event, outlined the specifics of the alleged incidents. He claimed that over 100 Fullahs were arrested and subjected to harassment by members of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). Arrests reportedly took place at Aberdeen Road Junction, Shell, Ferry Junction, Calaba Town, and Lumley.

Barrie further alleged that those arrested were selectively targeted based on ethnicity. “Individuals who could prove they were not Fullahs were released, while those identified as Fullahs were detained,” he stated.

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The press conference was aslo attended by tribal heads from various ethnic groups to show solidarity, sought to shed light on the events and put forward demands to the government.

During the press conference The Fullah leadership makes three key demands;

An official condemnation of the acts by the government.

A thorough investigation to hold perpetrators accountable.

A meeting with President Julius Maada Bio to address their concerns and restore confidence among the Fullah community.

In a press release issued during the event, the Fullah leadership described the arrests as acts of “unlawful harassment, intimidation, inhumane humiliation, and degrading treatment.” The statement acknowledged the government’s initial response, particularly the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s public condemnation of the incidents.

The leadership expressed appreciation for the government’s commitment to unity and inclusivity but emphasized the need for further action. They called for a swift and impartial investigation to ensure accountability and prevent ethnic profiling or targeted actions against any group of Sierra Leoneans in the future.

The press release also expressed gratitude to Sierra Leoneans who stood in solidarity with the Fullah community, underscoring the importance of unity and mutual respect in the nation. “Let us collectively strive to ensure that no individual or group is profiled or discriminated against based on ethnicity, region, or origin,” it stated.

The Fullah leadership reiterated its commitment to peace and stability, urging continued engagement with the government and other stakeholders to resolve the issue amicably.

Fula political figures from both the ruling SLPP and the opposition APC who were in attendance unite to condemn the actions and call for a swift investigation into the matter. They emphasized the need to hold those responsible accountable.

According to the Fula community, they have no knowledge of what prompted the arrests and have demanded answers from the government regarding the incident, which they argue violates the Constitution of Sierra Leone.

The Fullah leadership urged the government to bring those responsible to justice and to rebuild trust by addressing fears surrounding their security and safety. They emphasized that the Fullah community is an integral part of Sierra Leone’s society and a vital contributor to its development.