The protest in Sierra Leone over the high cost of living has claimed the lives of dozens of people.

The deceased include eight police officers and more than 21 civilians who took part in anti-government marches.

Thousands stormed the streets of the capital Freetown on Wednesday, protesting inflation and the harsh economic condition.

The government has declared a nationwide curfew in a bid to stop the massive protest from spreading.

Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh made the announcement on a television broadcast.

Jalloh said it was high time the country returned to normalcy, adding that the authorities would no longer tolerate violence.

The military and the police have been drafted to strategic locations to forestall further demonstrations.

President Julius Maada Bio, who has been asked to leave power, said his administration has a responsibility to protect every citizen.

“What happened was unfortunate and will be fully investigated. I urge all Sierra Leoneans to be calm”, he tweeted.