By Kadiatu A Turay

Lungi, a town known for its strategic location and the country’s only international airport, is now grappling with a surge in break-ins and theft, leaving residents and business owners worried about their safety. Once considered a relatively peaceful town, the growing wave of burglaries has sparked concerns over security lapses and the need for urgent intervention from authorities.

A Growing Concern.

Over the past few months, reports of burglaries have increased, with both homes and businesses falling victim to criminals who seem to operate with impunity. Victims recount harrowing experiences of waking up to find their homes ransacked or arriving at their businesses only to discover that valuable goods have been stolen.

“I have lived in Lungi for over ten years, and I have never seen crime at this level,” said Mariatu Sesay, a local shop owner in Lungi Town. “Last week, thieves broke into my shop and took everything valuable money, electronics, and food items. The worst part is that there was no immediate police response when I reported the case.”

Like Mariatu, many business owners have faced similar losses, with some considering relocating or closing their businesses entirely. Residents say they are now living in fear, especially at night when most of the criminal activities occur.

Residents Speak Out

For many residents, the rise in break-ins is more than just an economic concern; it is a direct threat to their personal safety. Families now go to bed with heightened anxiety, fearing an intrusion in the middle of the night. Some have resorted to fortifying their homes with extra locks, burglar-proof doors, and even improvised security measures.

“My house was broken into last month, and they took everything our television, phones, even my children’s school bags,” lamented Alhaji Bangura, a teacher living in Old Port Loko Road. “We called the police, but by the time they arrived, the criminals were long gone. We don’t feel safe anymore.”

Community leaders have also raised concerns about the impact of crime on the town’s development. Chief Pa Alimamy Kargbo, a local traditional leader, stressed that security should be a top priority.

“Our community is growing, and with growth comes challenges. However, crime should not be one of them. We need our security forces to be more proactive in keeping our people safe,” he said.

Businesses at Risk

Small businesses form the backbone of Lungi’s economy, and the rising insecurity is putting them in jeopardy. Shop owners, restaurant operators, and other business proprietors say they are facing frequent thefts that have left them counting losses.

“Some of us depend on these businesses for survival,” explained Mohamed Kamara, who owns a small electronics shop. “If crime continues like this, investors will leave, and the local economy will suffer.”

Banks, mobile money vendors, and traders dealing in high-value goods are increasingly becoming targets. Some businesses have opted to hire private security guards, but not all can afford this extra expense.

Police and Local Authorities Respond

Faced with mounting pressure, the police have acknowledged the rising crime rate and have pledged to take stronger action. According to Lungi’s Police Division spokesperson, Inspector Abdul Karim Jalloh, efforts are being made to tackle the issue.

“We are aware of the situation, and we have deployed more patrol teams, especially at night,” he stated. “We are also working with community members to identify suspects and dismantle criminal networks.”

However, some residents argue that the police response has been slow and ineffective. They are calling for more visibility of security forces in crime-prone areas and the establishment of community watch groups.

“Police presence should be felt at all times,” said a frustrated resident, Fatmata Mansaray. “Right now, criminals know they can get away with their actions because there is little to stop them.”

The Role of the Community.

While many agree that the police need to do more, others believe that addressing crime in Lungi requires a collective effort from the entire community. Religious leaders, youth groups, and traditional authorities are being urged to play an active role in crime prevention.

“We cannot leave everything to the police,” said Imam Salieu Koroma of the Lungi Central Mosque. “As a community, we must look out for one another, report suspicious activities, and engage our youth in productive activities to discourage them from turning to crime.”

Youth unemployment has been identified as one of the underlying factors contributing to the surge in criminal activities. Many young people in Lungi struggle to find stable jobs, leading some to resort to theft as a means of survival. Addressing these socio-economic issues, experts say, will help curb crime in the long run.

The Way Forward

To effectively tackle the growing insecurity in Lungi, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Residents are calling for the following measures:

Increased Police Patrols Authorities must ensure a more visible security presence in high-risk areas, particularly at night.

Community Watch Groups Residents should work together to form neighbourhood watch programs that can assist law enforcement.

Better Lighting in Streets and Markets Poorly lit areas make it easier for criminals to operate. Installing streetlights in strategic locations can help deter crime.

Youth Empowerment Programs Providing job opportunities and skills training for young people can reduce the number of unemployed youths who might turn to crime.

Stronger Legal Action Criminals must be prosecuted swiftly and effectively to send a strong message that crime will not be tolerated.

The rising cases of break-ins and theft in Lungi have left residents and business owners feeling vulnerable. While the police have promised to step up their efforts, community involvement remains crucial in addressing the root causes of crime. By working together, authorities and residents can create a safer environment where businesses can thrive, and families can sleep without fear.

As Lungi continues to grow, its security challenges must be met with decisive action to ensure that the town remains a safe place for all.