By Dadson A. Musa
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP), via the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy (SILEA), has begun a six-week intensive training programme for 70 recruits of the Freetown City Council (FCC) Metropolitan Police on 17 th. August 2026. The initiative aims to strengthen municipal security, law enforcement, and public service within the capital.
Facilitated through a contractual arrangement between SILEA and FCC, the programme marks a significant collaboration to develop a professional municipal police force capable of enforcing laws, maintaining order, and contributing to a cleaner, safer Freetown.
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the SLP, FCC, SILEA trainers, and the recruits. A SILEA representative expressed appreciation to the Mayor and her team for establishing the force and assured that the training would be delivered successfully with a focus on imparting essential knowledge, skills, and professionalism.
SILEA Commandant ACP Brima Kamara (Esq.) highlighted the academy’s extensive experience in training personnel across various agencies. He emphasised the importance of discipline, adherence to regulations, and obedience to lawful instructions, warning that violations have consequences. He urged the recruits to utilise the full six weeks, participate actively, and develop a clear understanding of their duties.
ACP Kamara reminded recruits they are not being trained to lead but to serve, encouraging humility, professionalism, and responsiveness to community needs. He clarified that physical training was intended to build fitness and resilience, not punishment.
On behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Mr. Andrew Mustapha Kamara welcomed the recruits, describing the training as a vital step in their service to Freetown. He outlined the programme’s focus on self-defence, arrest procedures, physical fitness, and academic subjects, aimed at producing disciplined and competent officers.
DIG Kamara urged recruits to respect police leadership, uphold the law, and maintain high standards of conduct, emphasising their role as public servants. He concluded by reaffirming the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to supporting the initiative and preparing the recruits for effective service.
In her keynote address, the Mayor of Freetown expressed gratitude to the SLP for undertaking the training. She highlighted the importance of establishing a capable Metropolitan Police to uphold order, enforce municipal laws, and support ongoing efforts to make Freetown cleaner and safer.
The Mayor encouraged recruits to take the opportunity seriously, with particular emphasis on empowering female recruits to develop confidence and leadership skills. She stressed that the workforce’s strength would be enhanced by inclusivity and professionalism.
She urged recruits to view the training as more than employment, but as a chance to acquire the skills and discipline necessary to serve the city effectively. She expressed confidence that the programme would enable the recruits to contribute to Freetown’s security, cleanliness, and development.
This initiative signifies a pivotal step in strengthening cooperation between the Sierra Leone Police and Freetown City Council. Recruits are expected to gain vital skills in physical fitness, self-defence, legal procedures, discipline, and professional conduct—equipping them to support municipal law enforcement and promote accountability and respect for the law.
The Sierra Leone Police remains committed to delivering professional training centred on discipline, accountability, and public service, aiming to produce a responsible and effective police force for Freetown.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 19th August 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
