Diplomatic tensions have flared between Guinea and Sierra Leone following the mass eviction of Sierra Leonean nationals from areas in Conakry deemed illegal by Guinean authorities. The repatriations, carried out as part of a broader crackdown on “criminogenic zones,” have sparked protests from Sierra Leone’s diplomatic mission in Conakry.

The Guinean ambassador to Sierra Leone has sought to defuse the situation, assuring Sierra Leonean authorities that efforts are underway to resolve the crisis swiftly.

Over recent days, Guinean security forces, supported by local government and judicial officials, have conducted operations targeting unauthorized settlements. Several individuals claiming Sierra Leonean nationality were apprehended and deported to Pamelap, the border post between the two countries.

Guinea’s public prosecutor clarified that the operation targets all individuals residing illegally in the affected areas, not exclusively Sierra Leoneans. However, Sierra Leone’s government remains critical of the mass repatriations, calling for a more diplomatic approach to addressing the issue.