Fire erupts at presidential building

A major fire broke out on Saturday at Sierra Leone’s presidential building, the State House, in central Freetown, triggering widespread concern as thick plumes of smoke billowed into the city’s skyline.

Government sources confirmed that the blaze engulfed the third and fourth floors of the iconic white structure, though the President’s office—located on the second floor—was left untouched.

The incident occurred around 4 p.m., sparking panic in the vicinity. While the cause of the fire remains unknown, the government quickly reassured citizens that President Julius Maada Bio was safe and was not in the country at the time. He is currently in Turkey attending an international conference.

In an official statement released by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, authorities said emergency response teams were deployed immediately and were working around the clock to contain the fire and minimize damage.

“Emergency teams are working diligently to ensure it remains protected,” the statement read, emphasizing that national security remains intact.

Eyewitness videos circulating on social media showed flames shooting from the upper floors, with dark, choking smoke pouring out of shattered windows.

“We saw smoke and fire billowing from the windows and the top floor of the building this evening,” said Mohamed Kamara, a Freetown resident who spoke to AFP.

In the aftermath of the fire outbreak, police cordoned off the surrounding streets while additional troops were deployed to maintain order and secure the presidential premises.

No casualties have been reported at the time of filing this report, and authorities say an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.