Concerns Ongoing After Riot Breaks Out in Sierra Leone Prison

Last week a riot broke out at the central prison in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown. Smoke could be seen billowing from the facility after it was confirmed that coronavirus had entered the prison. 

Inmates at the Pademba Road Prison set some buildings on fire in protest, "There are casualties, but these are early days. When the dust settles, we will be able to give you a more comprehensive account," Information Minister Swaray said in a video streamed online.

A resident near the prison also told AFP that gunshots had been fired during the incident.

Security forces were later deployed around the prison and residents in the area were ordered to stay indoors.

Amnesty International have responded to the incident;

“The riot shows that prisoners are becoming increasingly desperate at the government’s inaction to protect their right to health. There must be a prompt, thorough, impartial and effective investigation into the reasons that led to the riot and the heavy-handed response from prison guards who used live ammunition.”

“Prisoners are concerned about getting enough food after the prohibition on visits, as well as the spread of the virus and their ability to take preventive measures against COVID-19. 

“Yesterday’s riot shows that prisoners are becoming increasingly desperate at the government’s inaction to protect their right to health. There must be a prompt, thorough, impartial and effective investigation into the reasons that led to the riot and the heavy-handed response from prison guards who used live ammunition. The use of force even resulted in the death of at least one prison officer who was reportedly hit by a stray bullet.

“We are calling on the Sierra Leone authorities to put their promises to release hundreds of detainees into action – unless overcrowding is eased and conditions of detention improved, there is a risk of further riots and infections. They should release all those held in pre-trial detention and consider the release of other prisoners at risk, such as older people and those with underlying medical conditions.”