ECOWAS “Disgusted” By Sierra Leone Unrest

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned a brief unrest in Freetown in Sierra Leone on Sunday that has claimed the lives of 20 including military men.

In a statement on Sunday, the bloc said it was disgusted by the situation and urged the government to arrest and prosecute all the perpetrators.

“The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) 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 all participants in this illegal act.

“ECOWAS reiterates its zero-tolerance for unconstitutional change of Government. ECOWAS further underscores its commitment to supporting the government and people of Sierra.”

Reuters cites the country’s Army spokesman Colonel Issa Bangura as saying two people perished while 1,890 inmates escaped from the Pademba Road central prison after the attackers broke in. 24 have since returned.

Among the dead are 13 soldiers, three assailants, a police officer, a civilian and a private security, he told the news agency on Monday.

Meanwhile, eight are said to have been wounded.

The spokesperson also told the media organisation that three of the assailants have been arrested. Earlier, the President, Julius Maada Bio said the leaders of the assailants were in custody.

The assailants attacked the military barracks at Wilberforce, the prison and other locations in Freetown firing gunshots on Sunday, November 26, compelling the President to declare a nationwide curfew which was lifted on Monday.