Sierra Leone government has declared a nationwide curfew, the police said.
“The nationwide curfew declared in S/L now stands as follows: 10/08/22 – 3pm to 7 am. Every other day – 7pm to 7am.
Prs. on essential services such as EDSA, EGTC, radio and TV stations, telecoms, etc, can move around during the period of the curfew, if they possess valid ID cards,” Sierra Leone police said in a tweet.
The declaration came following protests in different parts of the country including the capital over the surge in the cost-of-living, according to reports.
The protesters reportedly have put up roadblocks, burnt tyres, and called for the resignation of President Maada Bio, who was away at the time.
“As a government, we have the responsibility to protect every citizen of Sierra Leone. What happened today was unfortunate and will be fully investigated. I urge all Sierra Leoneans to be calm,” The President Julius Maada Bio said in a tweet shortly after returning today.
So far, there has not been any official report of casualties, but unconfirmed reports said a number of police and civilians died from the clashes.