Curfew in Sierra Leone amid violent anti-government protests

death toll rises

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Freetown, Sierra Leone on Wednesday, protesting inflation and the rising cost of living in the West African country. The protests grew violent at times. Graphic images and video of battered and seriously injured protesters and some members of security forces could be seen on social media. Security forces were also seen firing guns at citizens.

Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh declared a nationwide curfew on Wednesday from 3 p.m. local time (11 a.m. ET) while President Julius Maada Bio is out of the country.

During a televised speech announcing the curfew, Jalloh referred to the protesters and the loss of lives without giving more details.

“These unscrupulous individuals have embarked on a violent and unauthorized protests which has led to the loss of lives of innocent Sierra Leoneans including security personnel,” the Vice President said.

One witness, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisals from the government, said: “The protests started this morning but have been brewing since last week.”

“People are protesting about inflation, hyperinflation and the cost of living. The police are too aggressive when handling issues and it came to the point where the people’s backs were against the wall,” he added.

Earlier, internet monitor NetBlocks reported the country was experiencing a nationwide disruption to internet service from several providers.

“Confirmed: Real-time network data show that Sierra Leone is in the midst of a near-total internet shutdown amid anti-government protests in #Freetown; metrics indicate national connectivity at 5% of ordinary levels,” NetBlocks said in a tweet.