By Mohamed Lamin Banya
Calm is gradually returning to Kailahun Township following violent unrest that erupted on Sunday and left one man dead while causing damage to police property.
According to the Sierra Leone Police, the incident began after officers responded to a report of a break-in at a residence in Kailahun Town. Upon arrival, they were informed that the suspected thief had fled towards the Kailahun Library area.
Police later encountered a crowd that had already apprehended the suspect, identified as Abdulai Kallon, a native of Daru Town. Kallon subsequently died under circumstances that are now being investigated by the police.
News of his death sparked anger among members of the Kailahun District Bike Riders Union, who alleged that police officers were involved in the incident. The allegations led to protests by bike riders and youths, some of whom reportedly attempted to attack and set fire to the Kailahun Police Station.
Police personnel intervened to disperse the crowd, but the Police Barracks along Pendembu Road was set ablaze, causing significant damage.
The Regional Police Commander East, ACP Joe Kamanda Bongay, led a team to the district to restore order and supervise investigations into both the death and the arson attacks.
A stakeholders’ meeting involving local authorities, police officials, the Bike Riders Union, and community leaders was later held to ease tensions and encourage cooperation with ongoing investigations.
Police said 25 suspects are currently in custody at the Kenema Police Station. Of these, 22 are being investigated in connection with the arson attacks, while three others, including two police officers, are assisting with investigations into the death of Abdulai Kallon.
Authorities say the situation is now under control, with normal business activities resuming across the township while investigations continue.
