Port Loko, Sierra Leone – March 27, 2025: The Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, has set the stage for a historic transformation of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), marking a shift from a traditional police force to a modern police service.
During his working visit to the North-West Region, which covered Port Loko, Kambia, and Lunsar, IGP Sellu outlined 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.
Speaking to key stakeholders, 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.
To address these concerns, he revealed that a National Threat Assessment and Public Perception Survey had been conducted, revealing a negative public opinion about police-community relations. He attributed this to certain policing approaches, including the mishandling of minor cases that could have been resolved through local courts.
IGP Sellu stressed that transitioning to a police service requires more than just a mindset shift among officers—it demands legal reforms and institutional support. He called for the review of key laws, including the Police Act, Public Order Act, and Discipline Regulations, to align with modern policing practices.
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.
Similarly, the Resident Minister for the North-West Region, Umaro Bon Wurie, welcomed the transition, emphasizing that it would reshape public perception of the police. He applauded the IGP’s decision to hold a town hall meeting, allowing for open dialogue between the police and the communities they serve.
The IGP’s visit and the proposed shift towards a service-oriented police force mark a significant turning point for law enforcement in Sierra Leone. Community engagement, legislative reforms, and public trust will be the pillars of this new policing model.
As the transition progresses, the success of this initiative will depend on continued dialogue, stakeholder support, and a shared commitment to improving security and justice for all.
SLP Media Team.
