The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, led a senior Sierra Leone Police delegation to Kenema on Tuesday to engage key stakeholders in a high-level security dialogue aimed at addressing rising crime concerns in the Eastern Region.
Held at the Holy Trinity Parish Hall, the meeting brought together traditional leaders, civic authorities, community representatives, and government officials to foster stronger collaboration between the police and the community.
Assistant Inspector General of Police East, Mr. Francis Moses Tawer, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of mutual trust, information sharing, and proactive policing as vital tools for maintaining peace and security in Kenema and its environs.
Chief Frank S.D. Neka, Chiefdom Speaker of Nongowa Chiefdom, praised the police for their ongoing efforts but expressed concern over recent armed robberies in the city. He urged residents to actively cooperate with law enforcement to enhance safety.
Mr. Anthony Kamara, Chairman of the Local Policing Partnership Board, emphasized that community policing remains essential for sustainable security and called on grassroots leaders to take greater ownership of crime prevention in their areas.
In his address, IGP Sellu conveyed condolences to the family of the late Reverend Father Augustine Dauda Amadu, who was allegedly killed during a robbery, and assured the public of a thorough investigation. He linked the recent crime surge to a recent prison break that resulted in the escape of several convicted offenders.
Acknowledging challenges such as limited police manpower and logistics, the IGP called for stronger community engagement to support police efforts. He reiterated the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to expand and institutionalize community policing frameworks across the region.
