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On Monday, daily life cautiously resumed in Freetown under the watchful eye of a heightened security presence, following clashes that erupted in the Sierra Leonean capital. The government took the step of partially lifting a curfew imposed in the wake of the violent incidents that unfolded on Sunday, leaving 13 dead among the ranks of the government-backed army.
The clashes, orchestrated by both active and retired soldiers, prompted the government to initiate a robust response. The army spokesperson, Colonel Issa Bangura, revealed on Monday that a manhunt was underway to apprehend those involved in the violent attack, including both current and retired serving soldiers.
"We have launched a manhunt for all those who were involved in the violent attack, amongst them current and retired serving soldiers," Colonel Bangura stated during a press briefing. The move reflects the government's commitment to holding individuals accountable for their role in the unrest.
As tensions ease, Freetown grapples with the aftermath of the clashes, with eight more soldiers reported to have sustained serious injuries while defending their barracks. The incident highlights the complexity of internal security challenges faced by the government and the imperative to swiftly address underlying issues to prevent further unrest.
The partial lifting of the curfew indicates a measured effort to return to normalcy, yet the heavy security presence signals a continued state of vigilance. The coming days will be crucial in assessing the stability of the situation and the government's ability to restore full confidence in daily life for the residents of Freetown.
