KAILAHUN, Sierra Leone – The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has confirmed the death of a commercial motorbike rider, Abdulai Kallon of Daru, following an incident in Kailahun District that triggered violent unrest and widespread destruction of police property.
According to a statement issued by the police, officers responded to a distress call on Sunday, 21 June 2026, concerning reports of unidentified individuals entering a residential compound. Upon arrival, police were informed that the suspected individual had already left the scene.
The statement explained that officers later encountered a crowd that had allegedly apprehended and physically assaulted the suspect.
Police intervened and took Abdulai Kallon into custody. However, he reportedly died while being transported to the police station.
News of the incident quickly spread throughout Kailahun, with reports circulating among commercial bike riders and residents that Kallon had been killed by police officers. The allegations sparked public outrage, leading to violent demonstrations across parts of the town.
During the disturbances, several police facilities sustained extensive damage. Among the affected structures were police barracks situated along Pendembu Road, a four-unit residential building occupied by police personnel, a police post, and other security installations, some of which were reportedly set ablaze.
In the aftermath of the unrest, security forces launched an operation that resulted in the arrest of 25 suspects. The individuals are currently assisting police with investigations into the death of Kallon, public disorder offences, and acts of arson.
The Sierra Leone Police has assured residents that calm has been restored in Kailahun and that normal activities have resumed.
Authorities further pledged to conduct a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the rider’s death and the subsequent violence.
Police have also appealed to members of the public to provide information that could help identify additional persons involved in the attacks and destruction of property, reiterating their commitment to maintaining peace, protecting lives, and preserving public order throughout the district.
