Ady Macauley, aspirant for the All People’s Congress (APC) presidential flagbearer position, has raised concerns over the recent arrest of Sierra Leonean security personnel by Guinean forces, describing the nation’s military as “ill-equipped” to protect its territorial integrity.

Speaking to newsmen, Macauley said, “The brutal truth is, our military is ill-equipped. When I become President of Sierra Leone, I will use every means to ensure that we take back Yenga and protect the territorial integrity of Sierra Leone.”

The remarks come after reports from Kaliyere Village in Falaba District alleged that Guinean soldiers crossed into Sierra Leonean territory, detaining several officers from the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Operational Support Division (OSD) before withdrawing.

In response, Guinean authorities issued an official statement disputing the claims, asserting that Sierra Leonean personnel had entered Guinean territory without authorization. Current reports indicate that 16 Sierra Leonean security personnel remain detained in Conakry.

The incident has intensified concerns over border security and the longstanding territorial dispute surrounding the Yenga area, a region that has been a flashpoint between Sierra Leone and Guinea for decades. Macauley’s comments signal a firm stance on national sovereignty and the need to strengthen Sierra Leone’s defence capabilities.