𝐈𝐆𝐏 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐮 𝐌𝐨𝐛𝐛𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡

The forum brought together a diverse array of community leaders, including Paramount Chiefs, youth representatives, women’s groups, police spouses, members of the Local Policing Partnership Board, drivers, bike riders, traders, university students, and secondary school pupils.

editorApril 1, 20252 Mins read73 Views

In a move to reform and rebrand the Sierra Leone Police, from Force To Service, the Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu was mobbed by members of the public, stakeholders and police personnel in the Northern Region of the country over the weekend.

The interactive sessions, which took place in Port Loko, Kambia, Lunsar, Makeni, Panlap, and Magburaka, are part of ongoing efforts to transition from a “Police Force” to a “Police Service,” emphasizing professionalism, public trust, and community collaboration.

In his keynote address, IGP Sellu outlined the objectives of the transformation, stressing the need for a proactive and community-centered police service. He emphasized the significance of regular community engagement and cooperative crime prevention measures.

“We aim to change the perception of policing in Sierra Leone by fostering a service-oriented approach. This transition requires collaboration from all stakeholders, including the public,” IGP Sellu stated. He highlighted ongoing efforts to provide specialized training and modern policing techniques to officers, ensuring efficient and ethical law enforcement.

The transformation, he noted, includes enhanced training facilities, updated uniforms, and improved service delivery. IGP Sellu assured attendees that this initiative goes beyond aesthetics, aiming to strengthen the relationship between the police and the communities they serve.

Outlining a strategic roadmap aimed at fostering community-oriented policing. He emphasized the importance of involving the public in decision-making and strengthening police-community relations.

IGP Sellu acknowledged past incidents that have led to a breakdown of trust between the police and the public. He referenced events such as the August 10, 2022, protests and previous civil conflicts, where police officers lost their lives or were assaulted in the line of duty.

He further stressed that transitioning to a police service requires more than just a mindset shift among officers. It also demands legal reforms and institutional support. He highlighted the progress made so far in the review of key laws, including the Police Act, Public Order Act, and Police Discipline Regulations, to align with modern policing practices.

He urged Local Unit Commanders to intensify their community sensitization efforts and prioritize foot patrols, reinforcing trust and security within neighbourhoods.

The Resident Minister, North Ibrahim Jalloh, commended the initiative of the IGP and team and pledged his full support for the reform agenda.

The Regent Paramount Chief of Bekeh Loko, F.S. Kanu expressed gratitude for the IGP’s visit and commended the SLP for its crime-fighting efforts in Port Loko. He described the engagement as a rare opportunity for local leaders to voice their security concerns directly to law enforcement.

The sessions concluded with a lively questions and answers segment, allowing stakeholders to share insights and recommendations for enhancing policing in Sierra Leone.