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Sixteen Sierra Leonean security personnel who were abducted by Guinean soldiers on Monday have been released following diplomatic engagements between the two countries.
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information, confirmed that all sixteen personnel are “safely” in the custody of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Kabba, who is currently leading a high-level delegation in Conakry.
Minister Kabba and his delegation are engaged in intensive discussions with Guinean authorities aimed at finding an amicable resolution to the ongoing border tensions between Sierra Leone and Guinea. The recent incidents are believed to be linked to the long-standing dispute over Yenga, a strategic border town that has remained a source of diplomatic friction for years.
The abduction of the Sierra Leonean personnel earlier this week heightened concerns over the fragile security situation along the eastern frontier. However, their release is being viewed as a positive outcome of swift diplomatic intervention by the government.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high on the ground. The Member of Parliament representing Kissi Teng Chiefdom in Kailahun District, Hon. Fallah Tengbeh, has raised alarm over what he described as an imminent security threat posed by Guinean forces.
According to Hon. Tengbeh, a group of heavily armed Guinean soldiers reportedly made an unauthorised entry into Sokoma village earlier this week. He alleged that the soldiers informed both local residents and personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces stationed in the area of their intention to return and take control of the village.
Sokoma village is located approximately 300 metres from Yenga, which is currently under the control of Guinean troops. The reported development has intensified fears among residents and local authorities, particularly amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Government officials have yet to issue a detailed statement on the alleged incursion into Sokoma, but diplomatic channels remain active as both countries seek a peaceful and lasting resolution to the border dispute.
