President Julius Maada Bio has expressed grave concern over what he described as a major security breach at the Presidential Lodge after an individual allegedly bypassed all security checkpoints and gained access to a storage facility, from where rice was reportedly stolen.

The President raised the issue while addressing security personnel, describing the incident as a clear demonstration of serious lapses in duty and professionalism among officers tasked with safeguarding the State Lodge.

According to President Bio, the fact that a thief was able to penetrate multiple layers of security undetected and access a restricted area highlights deep weaknesses within the existing security framework. He warned that such negligence poses a serious threat to national security and undermines public confidence in the country’s protective services.

In his remarks, the President stressed that in some countries, officials responsible for similar security failures would resign out of shame or face severe professional consequences, underscoring the gravity of the lapse at one of the nation’s most secured facilities.

He urged security personnel to recommit themselves to their responsibilities, emphasising the need for heightened vigilance, discipline, and accountability in the discharge of their duties.

President Bio noted that protecting the Head of State and national assets is not merely a routine assignment but a critical national obligation.

The incident has sparked renewed concerns about security standards at key state installations, with calls for a thorough review of existing protocols to prevent future breaches.