A massive fire broke out at the presidential building in Freetown, Sierra Leone, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky. Here’s what we know so far about this developing story.
- Fire erupted at the State House in Freetown.
- President Bio was reportedly not in the building at the time.
- The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
- Emergency teams are working to contain the blaze and protect the building.
Breaking News: Fire at Sierra Leone’s Presidential Building
Chaos erupted in Freetown, Sierra Leone, on Saturday as a fire blazed through the presidential building, also known as the State House. Witnesses reported seeing thick black smoke and flames pouring from the upper floors of the iconic structure.
Where Did the Fire Start?
According to a statement from the information ministry, the fire originated on the third and fourth floors of the State House. Thankfully, the president’s office, located on the second floor, remained untouched by the flames. Emergency teams are on the scene, working tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading further.
President Bio’s Whereabouts
The good news is that President Julius Maada Bio was not present at the State House when the fire broke out. He is currently in Turkey attending a conference. Whew!
Eyewitness Accounts and Social Media Buzz
Local resident Mohamed Kamara told AFP, “We saw smoke and fire billowing from the windows and the top floor of the building this evening.” Social media has been flooded with videos and images of the fire, showing the extent of the damage.
Security Measures in Place
Police have cordoned off the streets surrounding the State House, and security personnel and soldiers have been deployed to maintain order and assist with the emergency response. The Sierra Leone Fire Force is leading the effort to extinguish the fire.
Possible Causes Under Investigation
The cause of the fire, which started around 4:00 pm local time, is currently under investigation. Authorities are urging the public to remain calm and avoid the area as emergency teams work to contain the situation. The government will provide updates as more information becomes available. Could it be an accident or something more sinister? Only time will tell.
Sierra Leone: A Nation on Edge
This fire comes at a sensitive time for Sierra Leone, which has faced political tensions in recent months. Just recently, former President Koroma faced treason charges related to a failed coup attempt. This event adds another layer of uncertainty to the nation’s current climate.
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