19 Dec 2023 | 12:20 PM UTC
Sierra Leone: Nationwide amended 00:01-06:00 curfew remains in place as of Dec. 19 following failed coup attempt in Freetown Nov. 26 /update 6
As of Dec. 19, authorities maintaining amended 00:01-06:00 curfew nationwide in Sierra Leone following failed coup attempt Nov. 26.
As of Dec. 19, officials continue to maintain the 00:01-06:00 nationwide curfew following a failed coup attempt in Freetown in the early hours of Nov. 26. Officials have given no indication as to how long the curfew will remain in place.
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has indicated that travelers flying via Freetown International Airport (FNA) will be impacted due to the ongoing curfew. The last boat to cross over from Freetown to Lungi is scheduled to depart at 22:30. Travelers arriving close to the curfew time should book a hotel at the airport, while security forces will escort those arriving during curfew hours to a hotel or a secure holding center free of charge.
Increased security will also likely persist across the country, notably the capital near strategic, security, and government installations. Security-related disruptions to business operations and ground and air transport are likely until government forces complete their investigations and search efforts. Authorities may order additional restrictions depending on the severity of the perceived threat. Further similar security incidents and armed clashes cannot be ruled out.
Exercise increased caution if operating in Sierra Leone, particularly in Freetown. Confirm all travel arrangements and allow extra time to reach FNA during non-curfew hours. Avoid government buildings, security installations, and large concentrations of police and soldiers. Strictly heed the instructions of local authorities, including any official transport and security advisories. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.
On Nov. 26, armed assailants targeted military barracks and also overran several detention facilities, releasing inmates. The exact number of fugitives has not been provided; reports suggest about 2,000 inmates escaped. Search operations likely continue as of writing. At least 80 people, including 50 soldiers and former President Ernest Bai Koroma, have been arrested since the failed coup. Koroma remains under house arrest. The Nov. 26 clashes left at least 21 individuals dead.
