Former Guinean dictator Moussa Dadis Camara was reportedly taken from prison by a heavily armed commando during a operation that led to heavy gunfire in the capital Conakry. At least two other former officials, currently on trial alongside Dadis Camara for a 2009 massacre during his presidency, were also taken from the central prison. It remains unclear whether Dadis Camara left of his own free will.
A group of masked and heavily armed soldiers forcibly entered the prison at around 4:00 am (0400 GMT), stating that they had come to free Captain Dadis Camara. They seemed to know the location of Camara’s cell and took him and other detainees to an undisclosed location.
Dadis Camara’s lawyer, Jocamey Haba, expressed concern, suggesting that his client may have been taken against his will. Haba believes Camara has confidence in the justice system and would not attempt to escape.
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Gunfire was reported in Kaloum, a central district housing key government and administrative offices, the presidency, military headquarters, and the main prison. The situation is still developing.
The city centre in Conakry has been sealed off since dawn, with restrictions on entering or leaving. Armoured vehicles have been deployed in Kaloum, preventing movement in the area. Flights from Conakry’s international airport have not taken off on Saturday morning, as air traffic staff were unable to reach the airport from Kaloum, where they usually spend the night.
Guinea, a West African country with a population of approximately 14 million, experienced a coup in September 2021, led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya. This resulted in the overthrow of civilian president Alpha Conde. The junta has been in control since then.
Initial reports indicate that the events on Saturday are not another coup, but rather a heavily armed commando attack on the central prison. It is reported that Dadis Camara, Moussa Tiegboro Camara, and Claude Pivi have escaped. The situation is still unfolding, and further updates may emerge.