By Mariama Bundu
On Tuesday the 20th of January, 2025. The Minister of Information and Civic Education has paid glowing tribute to the men and women of the Sierra Leone Police Force at the Hastings police training School, describing them as brave patriots who have consistently put their lives on the line to protect the nation.
Speaking at the commemoration of Sierra Leone’s first-ever National Remembrance Day, the Minister addressed the Inspector General of Police, Deputy Inspector General, senior police officers, and gallant members of the force, describing the occasion as a true honour.
On behalf of His Excellency President Retired Brigadier Dr Julius Maada Bio, the Government, and the people of Sierra Leone, the Minister expressed profound gratitude to the police for their courage, heroism, and selfless service to the nation.
He noted that while ordinary citizens often flee from danger, police officers move toward it, even in the face of threats to their lives, personal safety, and the wellbeing of their families. He emphasized that officers continue to stand firm during periods of conflict and civil unrest, protecting lives and safeguarding the integrity of the state.
The Minister also shared a personal experience from a period of unrest, recalling how he and his mother sought refuge at a police station and later witnessed the devastating consequences of violence. He recounted walking past several police stations the following morning and seeing evidence of targeted attacks on young police officers who had been killed in the line of duty.
According to him, these painful memories underscore the sacrifices police officers have repeatedly made to ensure peace and stability in Sierra Leone.
He commended the Inspector General of Police for his leadership and for initiating the National Remembrance Day, describing it as a meaningful and historic step toward honoring fallen officers. The Minister stressed the importance of continued collaboration between the government and the police leadership to strengthen national security.
While acknowledging that the country has not always been able to adequately reward police officers for their sacrifices, the Minister stated that the nation owes them deep gratitude and respect.
Quoting scripture, he reminded the audience that “greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” He said this scripture reflects the ultimate sacrifice made by officers who have died in the line of duty, including those killed during civil unrest or in highway accidents while performing their duties.
The Minister described fallen officers as true patriots who chose to risk and, in many cases, give their lives for the country they loved.
As Sierra Leone observed its first National Remembrance Day, he called on the nation to commit to never forgetting the sacrifices of its security forces and to continue honoring their memory with gratitude and unity.
He concluded by thanking all members of the Sierra Leone Police Force for their unwavering service to the nation.
