Sierra Leone Diplomatic Efforts Stall in Guinea Detainee Crisis

Sierra Leone Diplomatic Efforts Stall in Guinea Detainee Crisis

The Sierra Leone government has publicly acknowledged the ongoing detention of 16 of its security personnel by Guinean forces as a regrettable development, according to Defense Spokesman Hassan Sei Coomber.

In a statement to Truth Media, Mr. Coomber indicated that diplomatic engagements, spearheaded by the delegation led by Foreign Affairs Minister Timothy Kabba, initially showed promising signs. However, the government's fact-finding mission encountered a procedural obstacle when a scheduled meeting with Guinean counterparts could not proceed, reportedly due to a lack of clear directive from the Guinean side.

"The situation is an embarrassment," Coomber stated, underscoring the government's absolute commitment to exhausting all measures to secure the swift release of the detained personnel. He also noted that direct communication with the individuals has not been established since the initial incident.

The delegation has conducted meetings with local communities in Kaliyereh, Sulima Chiefdom, Falaba District, as part of their efforts to gather comprehensive information and assess the on-the-ground situation.

Coomber emphasized that the government is resolutely committed to a diplomatic resolution of the impasse. "We have established, without a doubt, that Guinea also appears to favor de-escalation," he added.

When pressed for a potential timeline for the personnel's release, Coomber exercised caution, stating, “I will refrain from providing a specific timeline. All available resources are being leveraged to ensure the safe reunification of these personnel with their families and with us.”

The government maintains its reliance on sustained dialogue, stressing that patience and diplomatic engagement are the essential instruments for resolving the border security matter while prioritizing the safety and welfare of the Sierra Leonean personnel.