By Emma Black

The Sierra Leone Police have moved swiftly to defuse rising tensions between pupils of Prince of Wales Secondary School and Albert Academy after viral social media on 26 September 2025 the posts suggested plans for violent confrontations between the two institutions,

The Regional Commander for Freetown West, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Sylvester M.N. Koroma, led the intervention, stressing that the police would not tolerate any form of school-related violence. He was joined by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) John Fayiah Tumbay, Local Unit Commander of the Central Police Division, and Mr. Simeon Bai Sesay, a representative of the Provincial Security Committee (PROSEC).

A video circulating online claimed that groups of pupils from both schools were preparing for clashes. The footage sparked concerns among parents, teachers, and the wider community, prompting an urgent response from law enforcement authorities.

During his visit, AIG Koroma met with school staff and addressed the pupils directly. He issued a stern warning that any involvement in violence whether inside or outside school grounds—would result in swift police investigation and possible prosecution.

“Violence is not an option. As young people, your priority should be discipline and education, not fighting,” AIG Koroma told the students. He also condemned the possession of weapons and illicit substances in schools, warning that offenders would face both disciplinary and legal consequences.

To prevent future confrontations, the Regional Commander recommended the revival of anti-violence clubs in both schools. These clubs, he said, would promote peacebuilding, responsible behavior, and stronger collaboration between schools and law enforcement.

The Sierra Leone Police further reassured parents, teachers, and pupils of increased security presence around both schools to maintain a safe learning environment.

According to the Sierra Leone Police, the intervention demonstrates the force’s broader commitment to protecting young people, curbing school-related violence, and fostering safer communities across the country.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday, 3rd October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)