The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) commemorated the United Nations International Day of Police Cooperation on Monday, September 7, 2026, with a significant event held at the Sierra Leone Bank Complex in Kingtom, Freetown. This annual observance, dedicated to fostering global law enforcement collaboration, centered on key themes. The event specifically focused on protecting vulnerable people within society, building trust and legitimacy in policing operations, strengthening vital partnerships across various sectors, and ultimately creating safer communities for all citizens. Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu, a prominent figure at the commemoration, delivered a compelling address, calling for stronger national and international partnerships. He emphasized that such collaboration is indispensable to effectively confront the increasingly sophisticated and border-transcending nature of modern crimes. During his remarks, IGP Sellu identified several critical threats that demand concerted action, including the widespread challenges of cybercrime, the insidious practice of human trafficking, the widespread issues of illicit trafficking, and the complex networks of transnational organized crime. These, he showed, pose significant challenges to national security and global stability. He articulated a clear vision, stating, "By reinforcing our global partnership today, we can secure a safer tomorrow for communities everywhere," noting the profound impact of collective effort.
Strengthening Law Enforcement Capacity
Inspector General William Fayia Sellu further elaborated on the critical need for enhanced law enforcement capacity, outlining several essential components for its realization. He cited stronger intelligence and information sharing among agencies, the development of strong digital forensics capabilities, expanded cross-border cooperation initiatives, advanced training programs for officers, and the strategic application of modern technology as integral to this strengthening process. These measures, he argued, are fundamental to equipping law enforcement agencies to tackle contemporary criminal enterprises effectively. Minister Morie Lengor, for his part, identified a full range of emerging security threats that necessitate coordinated national and international responses. These threats include the growing menace of cybercrime, various forms of trafficking that exploit individuals and resources, the widespread challenges posed by illicit drugs, the urgent issue of gender-based violence, and widespread economic exploitation. He stressed that these multifaceted threats require a unified and strategic approach to mitigation and prevention.
The Sierra Leone Police reiterated its unwavering commitment to forging more strong partnerships across multiple sectors. This commitment extends comprehensively to collaboration with key government institutions, essential security-sector actors, key international partners, active Civil Society Organizations, the influential media, the dynamic segment of young people, and vital local communities. The SLP recognizes that a holistic approach, involving all these stakeholders, is critical to achieving its mandate. IGP Sellu, in his powerful statement, reaffirmed, "By reinforcing our global partnership today, we can secure a safer tomorrow for communities everywhere," showing the indispensable collective effort required to effectively address contemporary criminal challenges and ensure lasting peace and security. This full partnership strategy aims to build a resilient framework against crime and insecurity.
Internal Reforms and Challenges
Minister of Internal Affairs, Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Morie Lengor Esq. Delivered a keynote address emphasizing that cooperation among national institutions, communities, and international partners is absolutely essential for maintaining peace, strengthening security, and upholding the rule of law within Sierra Leone. Lengor also noted several significant reforms undertaken within the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), designed to modernize and improve its operational effectiveness and public perception. These reforms include the strategic transition from a traditional police force to a more community-oriented police service, signifying a shift towards greater public engagement and service delivery. He noted improvements in community policing initiatives, which aim to foster closer ties between officers and the communities they serve. An ongoing review of the Police Act is also underway, according to Lengor, reflecting a commitment to updating legal frameworks to meet contemporary policing needs.
Lengor candidly acknowledged persistent challenges confronting the SLP, which impact its operational efficiency and officer welfare. Specifically, he cited inadequate infrastructure and equipment, which can hinder effective policing operations. He also noted difficult working conditions for officers, which can affect morale and performance. Deficiencies observed in some detention facilities were noted, showing the need for improvements in human rights and custodial standards. He further stressed that effective accountability mechanisms are key for strengthening public confidence and ensuring professional and responsible policing within the country. This includes the vital work of the Independent Police Complaints Board, which he emphasized plays a critical role in upholding police standards, investigating complaints, and promoting transparency and fairness in law enforcement practices.
Peace Index and Public Trust
Sierra Leone achieved significant recognition as the second most peaceful country in West Africa, a testament to its efforts in maintaining stability and security. The nation further distinguished itself by ranking seventh across the African continent and 54th globally, according to the full 2026 Global Peace Index report. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of various institutions, including the Sierra Leone Police, in fostering a secure environment. The commemoration of the International Day of Police Cooperation concluded with an interactive dialogue, providing a platform for engaging discussions and collaborative problem-solving. This session specifically focused on developing and implementing effective strategies for safeguarding vulnerable members of society, recognizing their particular susceptibility to crime and exploitation. Participants also engaged in in-depth discussions on methods to reinforce trust, enhance transparency, ensure accountability, and promote mutual respect between security institutions and the public, all of which are foundational to effective and legitimate policing. This dialogue aimed to bridge gaps and build stronger relationships for a more secure future.
