Freetown, 24th February 2026– The Government of Sierra Leone has confirmed that on Monday, 23rd February 2026, armed personnel of the Guinean Armed Forces (GAF) crossed into Kalieyereh, Sulima Chiefdom, Falaba District, detaining members of Sierra Leone’s joint security team.
At the time of the incident, officers of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) were engaged in brick-making for the construction of a border post and accommodation facility intended to strengthen security operations in the area. The Sierra Leone national flag had already been hoisted within territory recognized as Sierra Leonean soil.
According to the government, Guinean soldiers apprehended several members of the joint security team, including an officer, and transported them across the border into Guinean territory. Their arms and ammunition were also seized.
Authorities in Freetown say they are actively engaging through established diplomatic and security channels to confirm the location of the detained personnel and secure their safe and unconditional release. The matter has been formally communicated to national, regional, and sub-regional authorities, with ongoing engagement aimed at ensuring a peaceful and amicable resolution.
A fact-finding mission has been constituted to visit the area immediately, establish the sequence of events, and provide further clarity. Government officials stressed they remain fully seized of the situation and assured the public that verified updates will be provided as information becomes available.
