Gambiaj.com – (PORT LOKO, Sierra Leone) – Security authorities are on high alert following reports of an alleged attempted jailbreak at the Port Loko Correctional Centre, amid growing uncertainty over the fate of prisoners after a fire was reported inside the facility.

Prison guards were said to have acted swiftly after intelligence indicated a possible prison break, working to contain the situation and prevent further escalation.

Inmates believed to be involved in the attempted jailbreak are reportedly under close monitoring as authorities seek to regain full control of the correctional center. (See video below story)

In response to the security threat, the North West Regional Commander, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Joseph Ibrahim Lahai, ordered military reinforcements to assemble at the Garrison Barracks in Lungi for immediate deployment to strengthen security in and around Port Loko.

Eyewitnesses described seeing thick smoke rising from the prison, but officials have yet to confirm the cause of the fire, the extent of damage to the facility, or whether any prisoners were injured or managed to escape. This lack of official information has heightened public anxiety and speculation.

Residents in Port Loko and nearby communities have expressed fear over the possibility of escaped inmates, while authorities have urged calm, stressing that security operations are ongoing to prevent any breach and to safeguard public safety.

The public has also been cautioned against spreading unverified information as investigations continue.

The situation remains fluid, with many details still unclear. Law enforcement officials say updates will be provided once accurate and verified information becomes available.