Freetown, Sierra Leone – February 24, 2026
In a swift and measured reaction to the reported cross-border incident involving Guinean Armed Forces (GAF) on February 23, 2026, the Government of Sierra Leone issued an official press release through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, outlining the events and detailing its immediate actions to address the situation.
The government confirmed that GAF personnel entered Sierra Leonean territory in the border town of Kalleyereh, Sulima Chiefdom, Falaba District. At the time, members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and Sierra Leone Police (SLP) were constructing a border post and accommodation facility in an area recognized as belonging to Sierra Leone, where the national flag had been hoisted.
During the encounter, Guinean forces apprehended several joint security team members, including an officer, and transported them into Guinean territory. Their arms and ammunition were also seized.
Emphasizing a commitment to de-escalation and diplomacy, the government stated it is “actively engaging through established diplomatic and security channels to confirm their location and secure their safe and unconditional release.”
The matter has been formally communicated to appropriate national, regional, and sub-regional authorities, with ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring a “peaceful and amicable resolution.”
To gather accurate details and prevent misinformation, the government has constituted a fact-finding mission to visit the area immediately. This team will establish the sequence of events and provide further clarity.
The press release assures the public that the government “remains fully seized of the situation” and will keep citizens informed as verified information becomes available.
This response underscores Sierra Leone’s priority on regional stability, avoiding any rhetoric that could heighten tensions while prioritizing the safe return of its personnel through multilateral channels.
