The Sierra Leone Police (SLP), in partnership with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has launched a two-day training workshop aimed at strengthening integrity and professionalism within the country’s law enforcement agencies.
The workshop, taking place at the Police Wives Association Multi-Purpose Hall in Kingtom, is held under the theme “Mainstreaming Integrity in the Operations of Law Enforcement Agencies.” It brings together personnel from the SLP, Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), the Motor Drivers Union, and the Bike Riders Union, with the objective of promoting transparency, ethical behavior, and accountability across these institutions.
Opening the workshop, Assistant Inspector General of Police and Director of Training, Mr. Andrew Mustapha Kamara, emphasized that the goal of the training is not to blame individuals, but rather to encourage constructive dialogue on tackling corruption and improving the image of law enforcement.
Delivering the keynote address, ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala Esq. described the initiative as a commendable and proactive step toward institutional reform. He praised the SLP for taking ownership of anti-corruption efforts and highlighted the long-standing advisory relationship between the ACC and the police.
While acknowledging that public perception surveys often rank the SLP among the most corrupt institutions, Commissioner Kaifala clarified that such perceptions are largely influenced by the police’s high level of interaction with the public. “It doesn’t mean all officers are corrupt,” he said, noting that many continue to serve with integrity despite systemic challenges.
Commissioner Kaifala also touched on the need for improved working conditions and better remuneration for police personnel. He acknowledged government efforts to improve salaries, while recognizing the limitations posed by the national budget. He urged law enforcement officers to uphold ethical standards and hold one another accountable, stressing that professionalism is key to restoring public trust.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Mr. Sahr Yomba Senessi officially declared the workshop open. He conveyed greetings from IGP William Fayia Sellu and welcomed the collaboration with the ACC. DIG Senessi noted that public perception surveys are useful tools for institutional self-assessment and improvement.
He encouraged participants to actively engage in the training and view it as an opportunity to foster lasting change within their respective agencies. He also called for continued cooperation among all stakeholders in the fight against corruption.
The two-day training will involve officers from both the Western and Eastern Regions, and is expected to enhance ethical practices and reinforce a culture of accountability across Sierra Leone’s law enforcement landscape.
