By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The Motema Police Division in Kono District is taking a proactive approach to crime prevention through intensified community engagement, as part of a broader effort to strengthen public safety and trust between law enforcement and residents.
Under the leadership of Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Mohamed Turay, the division has rolled out a series of outreach meetings across local communities, focusing on collaboration, accountability, and shared responsibility in maintaining peace and order.
CSP Turay, who has made community policing a cornerstone of his administration, has been meeting with youth groups, traditional leaders, and stakeholders to develop strategies aimed at reducing crime and promoting security awareness.
Speaking at a recent town hall meeting in Peya Town, Peyefeh Section, Nimiyama Chiefdom, CSP Turay commended residents for maintaining low crime rates and upholding community peace. He reaffirmed the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to “partnership-based policing,” stressing that effective law enforcement is only possible through mutual cooperation between the police and the people.
“Policing is no longer about authority alone it is about partnership and trust,” CSP Turay noted. “When communities and police work hand in hand, crime is reduced, and peace is sustained.”
During the engagement, the police chief also addressed growing concerns over drug abuse and sexual offences in the district. He warned young people about the dangers of narcotic substances, including “kush,” and reminded parents of their moral duty to monitor and guide their children’s behavior. CSP Turay further emphasized the need for community vigilance in protecting women and girls, referencing the Sexual Offences Act as a tool to ensure justice and accountability.
Local leaders in attendance praised the renewed police–community collaboration. Chief Paul Mayamba, Senior Town Chief of Peyefeh Section, said the initiative had transformed the area from “a place of lawlessness to one of order and respect.” He pledged continuous support for police programs promoting peace.
Meanwhile, Chief Sahr Wotay raised concerns over a land dispute between Meya and Manjedu communities and appealed for timely police intervention to prevent potential conflict.
The meeting concluded with an open dialogue session, allowing residents to express their concerns directly to the police leadership, who provided immediate feedback and practical solutions.
With such regular engagements, the Motema Police Division is not only restoring confidence in law enforcement but also setting a strong example of how inclusive policing can build safer, more resilient communities across Sierra Leone.
