Guinea: Heightened security likely in the coming days following a high-profile attempted prison escape in Conakry Nov. 4 /update 2

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a tight security posture in parts of Guinea over the coming days as part of their continuing operations following the escape of several high-profile prisoners in Conakry's Kaloum area early Nov. 4. A group of unidentified gunmen assaulted the Central Prison at around 05:00, freeing the country's former leader Moussa Dadis Camara and at least three of his lieutenants. Officials immediately responded to the incident by deploying a heavy security presence, especially in and around Conakry, and closing the nation's borders. Although three of the escapees were recaptured and returned to their cells within a matter of hours, the fourth has yet to be apprehended; moreover, it remains unclear whether any of the armed assailants who initiated the prison break remain at large. There have been no reports of casualties.

As of the evening of Nov. 4, road traffic in Conakry had largely returned to normal, with government officials advising the public to go about their business. The nation's border with Mali has reportedly reopened, although the status of the borders with other neighboring nations remains unclear. Authorities at Ahmed Sekou Toure International Airport (CKY) have refuted earlier reports that the facility had closed due to the incident; CKY officials assert that all scheduled flights departed on time.

Authorities will very likely maintain increased patrols and checkpoints along major roads, near strategic government installations, border crossing points, and transport hubs until all suspects involved in the jailbreak are apprehended and the security situation stabilizes. Identify checks and vehicle searches are likely. Officials could implement additional movement restrictions, such as curfews, should they deem that the situation warrants. Armed clashes are possible during any attempt by law enforcement officers to apprehend suspects.