Sierra Leone has deployed a heavy military presence in strategic locations across the country, including the Hastings-Jui highway in Freetown, following a gunmen attack on Sunday, November 26, 2023.

Security checkpoints have been set up along various routes, with personnel stopping and inspecting vehicles, drivers, and passengers. These increased security measures come in response to the unrest that erupted in the capital after an attack on the Wilberforce military barracks early Sunday morning.

The attack was followed by sporadic gunfire in Cockeril and other locations, resulting in the loss of life of several security personnel and the escape of inmates from the Pademba Road prison.

According to reports, the attackers were repelled by a combined team of government security forces. The motive for the attack remains unclear, but the Sierra Leone authorities are currently investigating the matter.

In the aftermath of the attack, 24 individuals have been apprehended, including six female ex-soldiers, nine retired senior officers, five current serving officers belonging to the 999 group, and four ex-workers to former president Ernest Bai Koroma.