The Government of Sierra Leone has partially lifted a curfew imposed after the clashes erupted in the city.
Clashes had taken place in the country’s capital, Freetown, on Sunday which left 13 dead in the ranks of the army loyal to the government.
The army spokesperson, Colonel Issa Bangura, said Monday that the crisis was orchestrated by active and retired soldiers.
Bangura told reporters, “We have launched a manhunt for all those who were involved in the violent attack, amongst them current and retired serving soldiers.”
He told AFP that eight more soldiers had been seriously injured in the clashes as they defended their barracks.
The central prison and other penitentiaries were stormed and dozens of inmates appeared to have escaped.
Videos posted on social media appeared to show men in uniform under arrest in the back or beside a military pick-up truck.
“Certain members of the military are not loyal to the government or the President, despite taking the oath,” said Bangura.
“We want to restore law and order as quickly as possible,” he stressed.
President Julius Bio said late Sunday that calm had been restored after what he described as an attempt to undermine peace and stability and vowed those responsible for the clashes would be held accountable.
He said most of those behind the clashes had been arrested.
Contact: [email protected]
