Freetown, 23rd June, 2026 — The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has confirmed that 25 suspects are in custody following violent unrest in Kailahun Town on Sunday, June 21, which saw police property set ablaze after the death of a bike rider.
According to the SLP, officers responded to a distress call about unknown persons entering a residence. By the time police arrived, the alleged suspect had fled. Shortly afterward, a crowd apprehended and severely beat Abdulai Kallon, a bike rider from Daru, who was later taken into police custody. Kallon died en route to the police station.
News of his death quickly spread among bike riders, sparking allegations that police were responsible. In retaliation, groups of riders and youths went on the rampage, setting fire to police facilities, including the barracks on Pendembu Road, a four-apartment residential block, a police post, and other installations.
The police have since restored calm in Kailahun and launched investigations into alleged homicide, public disorder, and arson. “We remain committed to conducting a free, fair, transparent, and impartial investigation into all aspects of the incident,” the SLP said in a statement, appealing to the public to provide information that could help identify perpetrators.
The SLP emphasized its commitment to protecting lives and property, noting that the incident underscores the challenges of maintaining public order amid misinformation and community tensions.
