In a remarkable turnaround for the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Inspector General of police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu has earned a reputation as “Talk and Do,” a phrase often used to commend President Bio for his tangible achievements. Since assuming command two years ago, IGP Sellu has consistently delivered on his promises, garnering respect from both officers and the public.
Taking the helm during a period of crisis marked by a tarnished image, inadequate welfare for personnel, and stalled infrastructure projects, IGP Sellu has adopted a proactive approach to address these challenges head-on.
Under his leadership, discipline has been reinforced in accordance with the 2001 Police Disciplinary Regulations, with a strict zero-tolerance policy implemented for drug use among personnel. The inspector general has also revitalized the monthly distribution of rice and enhanced medical services by decentralizing healthcare facilities, establishing health centers at all regional headquarters across the country.
IGP Sellu has ensured equitable training opportunities for officers, including overseas courses for those stationed in the provinces. He has procured six containers of uniforms for the force, with two already delivered; the remaining four are expected soon. Notably, the sewing of police uniforms is set to be managed by the garment factory at Kingtom Police Barracks, reducing the financial strain on officers who previously had to sew their uniforms externally.
Additionally, IGP Sellu has breathed new life into the long-dormant Smart City Project, initiated in 2014. This initiative aims to install CCTV cameras in all major cities, with the pilot phase already underway in Freetown, where 40 cameras have been strategically placed, including at the Mile 38 checkpoint. President Bio has shown strong support for the project, donating 100 additional cameras to facilitate its implementation.
Further innovations include the reintroduction of customized handsets that rely on secure channels rather than conventional mobile network operators, enabling personnel to communicate situation reports without network interruptions.
IGP Sellu has also addressed several unfinished infrastructural projects, including the transportation of the Bamoi Police Station and the Freetown East Regional Headquarters, with many of these projects now nearing completion.
To enhance operational capacity, two new divisions have been established: Grafton and Koindu, with plans underway to upgrade Masingbi Police Station into a new division. Construction of a new police barracks in York, complete with a police station, school, and health center, is ongoing and will accommodate 65 officers and their families.
The upgrade of Kingtom Police Hospital to a teaching health center and the expansion of medical facilities nationwide have dramatically improved healthcare services. A partnership with the Surgeon in Action Foundation from Spain has enabled over 700 successful free surgical operations and the donation of a state-of-the-art anesthesia machine valued at over $50,000. As a result, 95% of medical examinations for peacekeeping missions are now conducted at the police hospital, a significant increase compared to previous practices.
Massive rehabilitation efforts are currently underway at police headquarters to align with modern policing standards as SLP transitions from a traditional force to a service-oriented model. IGP Sellu recently concluded a nationwide tour aimed at preparing personnel and educating the public on this transformative shift, which has been met with widespread approval.
As IGP Sellu continues to implement his vision for a more effective and responsible police service, he exemplifies the “Talk and Do” ethos that resonates throughout Sierra Leone.
SLP Media Team
