By Emma Black

The Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has successfully concluded its nationwide recruitment exercise to select dedicated officers for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) investigations, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to protect vulnerable populations.

The recruitment and screening exercise, conducted across all regional headquarters, targeted voluntary applicants from various police departments. The selected officers will be tasked with safeguarding the rights of women, children, and other vulnerable groups by handling SGBV and child-related cases with professionalism and sensitivity.

D/Superintendent Mansaray, Head of the FSU, explained that the rigorous exercise was designed to evaluate candidates’ policing knowledge, investigative skills, and ethical standards. Prior to the examinations, applicants were addressed by Regional Commanders, representatives from Human Resource Management, the Complaints, Discipline and Internal Investigations Department (CDIID), and the FSU team. They received briefings on examination ethics, conduct, and policing regulations to ensure fairness, discipline, and transparency throughout the process.

The initiative reflects the vision of Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu to modernize the Sierra Leone Police into a professional and community-focused service.

Examinations were conducted under the supervision of Regional Commanders and designated FSU examiners, alongside Regional Human Resource Managers and CDIID officers in Freetown, Kenema, Bo, Makeni, and Port Loko. Strict adherence to procedures ensured transparency and credibility.

Out of 411 applicants, 308 were shortlisted for interviews. Following interviews, 155 candidates proceeded to the entrance examination, and ultimately, 115 officers successfully passed, including 35 females and 78 males.

Before assuming their new roles, the selected officers will undergo specialized training in SGBV and child-related investigations. The training aims to enhance investigative competency, promote compassionate handling of cases, and strengthen access to justice for victims, thereby contributing to a safer society.

The FSU leadership commended the high pass rate as a reflection of both the credibility of the process and the dedication of officers to serve within the Unit. D/Superintendent Mansaray reaffirmed the FSU’s commitment to professional standards, international best practices, and the wider SLP transformation agenda.

The Sierra Leone Police Media Team highlighted that the successful conclusion of this recruitment exercise underscores the country’s growing capacity to respond effectively to SGBV and child protection challenges.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 15th September, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)