By Josephine Sesay

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq., has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening national security during a high-level visit to Kono District, where he met with security forces and key stakeholders to address growing concerns over crime and safety.

His visit began with a tour of the Koidu Holdings Concession Area, where he thanked the police and military officers stationed at the site for their continued service in safeguarding the company’s assets. While commending their efforts, the Minister noted the challenges posed by limited personnel, stressing the need for additional support and resources to ease their workload.

Later in the day, Minister Lengor convened a stakeholder engagement session that brought together representatives from the Council of Paramount Chiefs, the Office of National Security, the Koidu District Council, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Kono City, Civil Society Organizations, and other district officials.

In his address, the Minister urged local leaders to collaborate more closely with law enforcement to tackle organized crime and ensure a safer community. “Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he said. “We must all support the police and work together to protect our people and our district.”

A resolution was reached to establish a committee that will develop a comprehensive and inclusive action plan. This plan will outline both immediate and long-term strategies to address the security challenges raised during the town hall meeting that followed the engagement.

The Minister also made stops at the Motema and Tankoro Police Divisions, where he met with Local Unit Commanders, CSP Augustine Kabia and CSP Augustine Kamara, and their teams. He praised their dedication and urged them to maintain high professional standards in the face of daily challenges.

To round off his visit, Minister Lengor toured the Sefadu Correctional Services and the National Fire Force in Koidu City. He encouraged the staff at both institutions to remain disciplined and committed, emphasizing that their roles are critical to maintaining law and order in the district.

The Minister’s visit comes as part of a broader national effort to assess security operations on the ground and ensure that local law enforcement agencies are fully supported in their mandate to protect lives and property.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on ednesday,13th August 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)