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The Sierra Leone Police Force has issued a public notice regarding the forced deportation of Sierra Leonean nationals from Guinea.
Sierraloaded previous reported how Guinean authorities apprehended individuals suspected of engaging in activities deemed detrimental to their national security, without prior notification to Sierra Leonean authorities.
The incident, which occurred on December 10th, led to a temporary closure of the Gbalamuya border crossing. Sierra Leonean border officials, unsure of the detainees’ nationalities, refused entry and requested Guinea to adhere to established repatriation protocols for foreign nationals.
A brief standoff ensued on December 11th, but the border has since reopened. The deported individuals are currently undergoing health and security screenings to verify their identities. Those confirmed as Sierra Leonean citizens will be reintegrated with their families.
In a statement, the Sierra Leone Police Force expressed concern over the incident, stating:
“On Tuesday, December 10th, 2024, Guinean authorities transported individuals, believed to be Sierra Leoneans, to the Gbalamuya border crossing in the Zambia district. These individuals were reportedly suspected of engaging in activities that Guinea considers a threat to its security. However, no prior notice of this action was given to Sierra Leonean authorities, either at the Gbalamuya border or the Sierra Leone embassy in Conakry.
“Sierra Leonean border officials, uncertain about the individuals’ nationalities, refused entry and requested that Guinea follow established protocols for repatriating foreign nationals. This led to a brief standoff on Wednesday, December 11th, during which the border was temporarily closed.
“Guinea has issued an official notification regarding the planned repatriation. The individuals are now undergoing health and security screenings to confirm their identities. If verified as Sierra Leoneans, they will be reintegrated with their families across the country.”
