The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has confirmed the arrest of 25 individuals in connection with the violence that erupted in Kailahun Town on 21 June 2026 following the death of commercial bike rider Abdulai Kallon.
According to a police press release, officers responded to a distress call involving an alleged suspect. Upon arrival, they found that Kallon had already been apprehended and severely beaten by a crowd. Police took him into custody and were transporting him to the police station when he reportedly died on the way.
The SLP said misinformation claiming that Kallon had been killed by police officers quickly spread among bike riders, triggering unrest in the town. The violence resulted in the burning of several police properties, including barracks, a police post, and other facilities.
Police said the 25 suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged homicide, arson, and public disorder. Investigations remain ongoing.
The SLP stated that calm has been restored in Kailahun and appealed to members of the public to provide any information that could assist the investigation. The force also reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a free, fair, transparent, and impartial investigation into the incident.