06/23/2026
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has issued a press release clarifying the circumstances surrounding the death of Abdulai Kallon, a bike rider from Daru, and the subsequent unrest in Kailahun Town.
According to the police, officers responded to a distress call on Sunday, 21st June 2026, regarding unknown persons who had allegedly entered a residence in Kailahun. Upon arrival, the alleged suspect had already left the scene.
The police stated that they later encountered a large crowd that had apprehended and severely beaten Abdulai Kallon. Officers reportedly took him into custody and were transporting him to the police station when he died on the way.
The SLP further revealed that misinformation quickly spread among bike riders, claiming that Kallon had been killed by the police. The allegations reportedly triggered violent protests, with groups of bike riders and youths setting fire to police properties, including the police barracks on Pendembu Road, a four-apartment residential block, a police post, and other police facilities.
Police confirmed that 25 suspects have been arrested and detained in connection with the alleged homicide, public disorder, and arson. Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
The SLP noted that calm has now been restored in Kailahun and assured the public of its commitment to conducting a free, fair, transparent, and impartial investigation. The police have also appealed to members of the public to provide any information that may assist in identifying those responsible for the crimes committed during the unrest.
