Members of the opposition Sierra Peoples Party (SLPP) and the Peoples Movement for Democratic Change (PMDC) Wednesday engaged in a run-on battle bringing activities to a halt in the eastern provincial headquarter town of Kenema.

The violent encounter which made extensive use of stones and other missiles followed a victory celebration by supporters of the SLPP whose candidates made impressive marks in the July 5 local council elections.

Newly elected mayor of the Kenema city council chief Brima Kargbo denied knowledge of the incident but police officer-in-charge of operations assistant superintendent Daniel Bongloh said the attacks did take place.

However, he said the situation was immediately put under control because the rally was being manned by the police.

"It was not a serious confrontation because the police were able to cool down the situation," he said.

Bongloh said no report of damage to property was made by either side to the confrontation.

Publicity secretary of PMDC in the region David Kaikula Sama said SLPP supporters were jubilating along Dama Road where their office is located.

He said the SLPP supporters started chanting party slogans and at the same time using abusive languages against their leader Charles Francis Margai.

"As they approached our officer some SLPP youths started abusing our leader and even members of the party. They pelted stones at us and even damaged some of the office property," he claimed.

Sama said although they tried to avoid confrontation with the SLPP supporters, two of their supporters sustained injuries.

Resident Minister East Hon. William Juana Smith said he was informed by the Local Unit Commander Joseph Kabia about the ugly incident.

"I am always in close touch with the police to ensure that there is peace and stability in the region," he said adding that the situation was now under control.