Freetown, Sierra Leone – Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh on Friday, 27 February 2026, formally received 16 Sierra Leonean soldiers who were freed by the Government of Guinea after days of diplomatic negotiations over a border-related incident.
The soldiers’ return follows high-level engagements between authorities in Freetown and Conakry aimed at de-escalating tensions and securing their safe release. The diplomatic mission was constituted and mandated by the Vice President, who acted in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief in the absence of President Julius Maada Bio.
Addressing guests shortly before hosting a dinner in honour of the released personnel at his Freetown residence, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, disclosed that he led the delegation to Conakry on the instructions of the Vice President.
According to the Foreign Minister, the Vice President demonstrated decisive leadership at a critical moment, providing clear guidance to the delegation amid heightened emotions surrounding the incident.
“When the situation arose, the Vice President acted swiftly and gave firm instructions for constructive engagement,” Kabba said. “It was on the strength of that mandate that we travelled to Conakry and successfully secured the return of our compatriots who encountered that unfortunate situation in the line of duty.”
He further praised the coordinated efforts of Sierra Leone’s security institutions and diplomatic corps, noting that sustained dialogue with Guinean authorities resulted in the soldiers being handed over earlier in the day.
The development underscores Sierra Leone’s stated commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful dialogue and strengthening regional cooperation, particularly in matters relating to border security and bilateral relations with neighbouring Guinea.
