Sergeant John Abass Kamara, the regional spokesperson for the Sierra Leone Police in the northeast, explained the checkpoint's purpose in response to questions from Awoko Newspaper. He said that it is a component of a rapid response strategy to improve citizen safety and security following the failed coup attempt on November 26. Sergeant Kamara highlighted how the security personnel working on this operation worked together, especially in finding those wanted in relation to the coup.
While pleading for assistance from the public, particularly from Makeni locals, Sergeant Kamara gave the assurance that the military's cooperation is focused on locating and detaining those suspected of being involved in the attempted coup.
Locals
walking along Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma Avenue provided eyewitness statements, revealing
that authorities searched bags and checked identities. But no suspects have
been taken into custody as of yet, and the police have not said how long the
checkpoint will remain in place.
The Awoko Newspaper reached out to the former president's office to inquire about the roadblock, but security concerns prevented them from responding.
Makeni has been largely calm despite rumors that the road would be used as a means of escape for people wanted in relation to the failed coup. At checkpoints, police and military personnel who make up joint security forces maintain constant efforts to maintain public safety and security in the area by being watchful.