JICA Secures International Training For Sierra Leone Police

In a significant advancement for the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has announced the procurement of three international training courses aimed at enhancing the force’s capabilities in 2025.

During a meeting with Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mr. William Fayia Sellu on February 11, 2025, JICA Resident Representative Mr. Norihito Yonebayshi expressed the agency’s commitment to supporting the SLP’s capacity-building initiatives. The meeting took place at the IGP’s office on George Street, Freetown.

Mr. Yonebayshi highlighted that JICA had responded positively to the IGP’s request for improved training for the police. “In line with our commitment to strengthening the security sector, which is fundamental to any nation, we have secured three international training courses for the Sierra Leone Police as part of our contribution to capacity building,” he stated.

The upcoming training sessions will focus on crucial subjects including money laundering, human trafficking, and effective police responses to these crimes. IGP Sellu expressed his appreciation to JICA for addressing the training needs of the SLP, emphasizing the importance of ongoing education in contemporary policing.

“Policing is an evolving activity; crime is continuously adapting, and to stay ahead, we must ensure our personnel receive constant training,” the IGP underscored. He assured that the SLP would select the most qualified officers for the courses, who would subsequently disseminate their knowledge and expertise to further enhance the agency’s overall performance.

IGP Sellu indicated that the collaboration between JICA and the SLP is anticipated to deepen, marking a considerable step forward for the Sierra Leone Police. He expressed confidence that the training would significantly improve the SLP’s ability to combat critical crimes and address pressing security challenges.