Diplomacy Secures Release of Detained Security Personnel from Guinea

Diplomacy Secures Release of Detained Security Personnel from Guinea

The Government of Sierra Leone has successfully secured the release of sixteen security personnel who were detained by Guinean authorities following a border incident in Falaba District.

The incident, which commenced on February 22, 2026, involved the apprehension of members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Office of Security Details (OSD) in the border region. Sierra Leone asserted that the team was engaged in the construction of a border post on sovereign territory, a claim contested by Guinea, which alleged a territorial incursion.

The personnel were safely repatriated to Sierra Leone following high-level diplomatic engagements spearheaded by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba. The Ministry of Information and Civic Education has confirmed that the security officers are now under the care of the government and have been reunited with their families.

In a formal statement, the Ministry underscored the pivotal role of diplomacy in resolving the incident and reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to utilizing all available channels to address disputes with neighboring nations.

This successful handover represents a significant de-escalation of the crisis and strengthens ongoing efforts to maintain peaceful bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Guinea. Officials from both countries are scheduled to continue dialogue aimed at preventing future border disputes and ensuring regional stability.