CCSL Partners Police

Freetown, 19th March 2025 — The Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL) has taken a significant step towards strengthening collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) in a bid to enhance community-centered policing.

A cross-section of CCSL members, led by Programme Manager Rev. Moses Khanu, paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, at Police Headquarters on George Street. During the meeting, Rev. Khanu highlighted CCSL’s ongoing work across all sixteen districts in the country, focusing on advocacy, gender issues, and psychosocial counseling related to female genital mutilation, drug abuse, and sexual and gender-based violence.

Rev. Khanu noted that while CCSL has professionals working in these areas, the organization faces challenges with referral processes. He commended the SLP’s shift from a force-centered to a service-oriented approach, emphasizing that this transition aligns with CCSL’s vision for community engagement. “For over six years, we have been engaging in community outreach programmes, and we are happy to strengthen ties with the Sierra Leone Police for more effective service delivery,” he said.

In his response, IGP Sellu welcomed the partnership, expressing gratitude for CCSL’s initiative. He reaffirmed the SLP’s commitment to building trust through community-centered policing and highlighted the importance of collaboration with organizations like CCSL. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision as we transition from force to service. We look forward to working together, especially in areas such as school sensitizations, community engagement, which will help build trust with the community,” IGP Sellu stated.

To ensure smooth collaboration, the IGP assigned the Director of Gender and Community Relations Affairs to lead joint efforts with CCSL, particularly for school outreach programmes. Additionally, he proposed that CCSL work closely with the Transnational Organized Crime Unit on drug-related cases and counseling. He further encouraged CCSL to develop training packages for police personnel, acknowledging that officers themselves could benefit from counseling services.

IGP Sellu concluded by reaffirming the SLP’s unwavering commitment to the partnership, emphasizing the importance of working together for the greater good of the country.