Experts from the International Police Organization (INTERPOL) have completed their visit to Sierra Leone, focusing on the implementation of the INTERPOL I247 system and providing a specialized training program for personnel from various investigative units of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) aimed at combating environmental and pharmaceutical crime.
Over a three-day period, the experts conducted an intensive training course, certifying twenty-six police personnel in the fields of Environmental and Pharmaceutical Crime. This initiative is designed to empower participants with the skills necessary to effectively address these critical crime areas in their divisions. The training took place at the Senior Police Officers Mess at the Kingtom Police Barracks.
Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Sahr Yomba Senesi, representing the Inspector General of Police, commended INTERPOL for delivering valuable training to the SLP. He emphasized that this initiative reflects the commitment of the Executive Management Board of the Sierra Leone Police to enhance the capabilities of its personnel. “This training will significantly contribute to the capacity building of the SLP, which is currently our top priority,” he stated.
AIG Senesi underscored the importance of the knowledge and skills acquired during the training, asserting that “knowledge is wealth.” He expressed confidence that the enhanced capacity would empower officers in their ongoing efforts against crime. “If you are equipped with the right skills and knowledge, the sky is the limit,” he declared.
He also announced intentions to develop a monitoring mechanism to ensure that the benefits of the training are effectively integrated into the SLP’s operations.
Director Theos Badege, the lead facilitator of the training, underscored the growing threat of environmental crime, along with other pressing issues like human trafficking, arms trafficking, and narcotics. He highlighted the necessity of providing police officers with the essential skills and tactics needed to combat these crimes effectively.
Detective Chief Superintendent of Police Jenevieve Tity Cowan, head of the National Central Bureau, reflected on the success of the training and assessment evaluation exercise. She noted that the program was notably participatory, blending both theoretical and practical elements, and expressed optimism that the training would lead to improved performance in the daily duties of officers
The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to the participants. Following the ceremony, the INTERPOL experts paid a courtesy visit to Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. Aiah Edward Samadia to present their findings. Mr. Badege characterized the outcomes as highly satisfactory and encouraged the National Central Bureau to continue its commendable efforts in law enforcement.
Credit: SLP Media Team