A tragic shooting within the Presidential Guard Precinct at the Freetown International Airport in Lungi on Wednesday, 26th November 2025, has left one senior military officer dead and another in custody. The incident involved two members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Presidential Guard Unit.

According to eyewitness accounts, the confrontation began during a disagreement over the distribution of tokens reportedly given by the Vice President prior to his departure earlier in the morning. Corporal Steven (RSLAF 18181456) allegedly accused his immediate superior, Warrant Officer Class One Moses Brima Kabba, of withholding funds that were intended for members of the Presidential Guard. Sources further allege that President Julius Maada Bio had also provided money to the guards upon his return from Angola the previous day, which the deceased officer was responsible for sharing.

The distribution of such tokens to guard personnel during presidential or vice-presidential movements is said to be a long-standing practice, though it has occasionally sparked grievances over perceived unfair sharing. Wednesday’s dispute, however, escalated fatally, resulting in the death of Warrant Officer Kabba.

Security forces swiftly responded to the scene, and a joint investigation has been launched by the Sierra Leone Police and the RSLAF to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. The remains of the deceased officer have been transferred to the Lungi Government Hospital for post-mortem examination.

Corporal Steven, the alleged shooter, was arrested shortly after the incident and is currently in custody as investigations continue. Authorities have yet to release further details.