Sierra Leone in anarchy

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone's capital, slid into anarchy as Nigerian-led troops battling the ruling junta closed in on the city centre. Residents said junta soldiers and former rebels allied to them ditched their uniforms as the army's command and control appeared to break down. Civilians were reportedly beheaded at road blocks mounted by pro-junta youths. There has been no official word for days from the Armed Forces Ruling Council led by Lieutenant-Colonel Johnny Paul Koroma, whose whereabouts remains unclear.

- Reuters, Freetown