On Tuesday, Guinea’s Foreign Minister S.E. Morisanda Kouyate and Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister Timothy Kabbah held a joint press conference in Freetown to provide clarity on a recent incident in Guinea that had sparked public concern regarding deportations.
Minister Kouyate addressed the media, explaining that reports of widespread deportations were based on misunderstandings. He clarified that the operation was not a deportation effort but a security operation targeting criminal activity in certain areas.
“The public concerns are based on allegations that do not reflect the actual situation,” Kouyate stated. “A special security operation was conducted by Guinean authorities targeting foreign nationals in a slum area suspected of being involved in harmful drug trafficking. The operation was aimed at ensuring public safety, and all individuals in the area were evacuated for their protection.”
Kouyate further explained that Sierra Leonean nationals impacted by the operation were not deported, but instead offered the opportunity to find alternative housing within Guinea. He reassured them that they were not required to return to Sierra Leone as part of the evacuation process.
“Guinea and Sierra Leone are brothers, and the two Presidents share a strong bond of friendship,” Kouyate emphasized. He also highlighted the history of mutual support between the countries, including Sierra Leone’s assistance during Guinea’s recent fuel depot crisis and the provision of medical aid.
Minister Kabbah echoed Kouyate’s statements, assuring the public that the area affected by the operation was slated for future development. He reiterated that the operation was not an attempt to deport Sierra Leoneans.
“The operation was a necessary step for public safety and the development of the area,” Kabbah said. “Our nations share a long-standing relationship, and this incident should not be seen as a break in that bond.”
Kouyate concluded the briefing by stressing that public concerns were largely driven by misinformation. “What some interpreted as deportation was, in fact, a precautionary measure for safety and order. Our two nations will continue to work together, and misunderstandings like these will be addressed through dialogue.”
Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship between Guinea and Sierra Leone, emphasizing their shared history, cultural ties, and ongoing cooperation across various sectors.
