Recent news in Guinea was marked by a spectacular attack on the central prison of Conakry, which made headlines and sparked numerous comments on social networks. A week after this incident, a previously unseen video was leaked, showing an intense exchange of gunfire between the commando and Guinean security forces near Donka hospital.
In this video captured by a surveillance camera, we can see a security forces pickup truck turning around under heavy fire. A passer-by who was nearby testified to the violence of the situation: “It was the meeting of two vehicles and immediately, shooting started from both sides. For about one to two minutes, there was gunfire. shots.” Both groups involved in the exchange of fire were dressed in regular military clothing, but some of them wore balaclavas and gris-gris.
Reactions to the images of this shooting have been varied. Some criticized the lack of resistance from the retreating security forces, saying they should have shown greater resistance. Others, on the contrary, welcomed their decision to withdraw in order to avoid a bloodbath.
However, according to the testimony of a person present on the scene, the reality is more nuanced. If you look closely at the video, you can already see a man on the ground. Rather than dwell on him, the security forces chose to take cover, which can be understood as an attempt to protect their own lives.
The climate that reigns in the city of Conakry following this attack is marked by mistrust. Residents are reluctant to answer questions, marked by the recent arrest of two people in the neighborhood.
This new video of the attack on the prison and the exchange of fire between the commando and the Guinean security forces has sparked many thoughts and comments. Guineans question the reaction of the security forces, some criticizing, others understanding their decision to withdraw. But beyond the controversy, this video testifies to the violence of the attack and recalls the instability which reigns in certain districts of Conakry. Vigilance therefore remains essential in this capital, which is prey to security tensions.