The Economic Community of West African States has condemned the plot by some individuals to disturb the peace of Sierra Leonians.
In a statement on Sunday, ECOWAS said, “The bloc has learnt, with utter disgust, a plot by certain individuals to acquire arms and disturb the peace and constitutional order in Sierra Leone.
“ECOWAS condemns this act and calls for the arrest and prosecution of everyone involved in the illegality.
“The bloc has always maintained its zero-tolerance for unconstitutional change of Government.
“We want to reaffirm our commitment to supporting the government and the people of Sierra Leone’s quest to deepen democracy and good governance by consolidating peace and security so as to foster socio-economic development.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Sierra Leonean government declared a 24-hour nationwide curfew after unidentified gunmen attacked a military barracks and attempted to break into an armoury in Freetown, the capital city.
The curfew order was contained in a statement by Chernor Bah, information and civic education minister on Sunday According to Bah, President Julius Bio declared a nationwide curfew following the security breach at the military barracks in Freetown.
The minister quoted Bio as reaffirming the government’s determination to protect democracy and peace, adding that security forces were in control of the situation.
“In the early hours of Sunday, some unidentified individuals attempted to break into the military armoury at the Wilberforce barracks. They have been rebuffed.
“A nationwide curfew has been declared with immediate effect. We strongly advise citizens to stay indoors.”
The minister recalled that Bio addressed the nation in the early hours of Sunday during which he alerted Sierra Leoneans to the security breach in Freetown.
