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The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has intensified efforts to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) through a nationwide capacity-building training for personnel of its Family Support Unit (FSU).
In partnership with the Rainbow Initiative under the European Union Spotlight Project, the SLP trained 50 FSU officers drawn from across the country in a one-day session held on Tuesday at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy (SILEA).
The training focused on strengthening investigative techniques, reinforcing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), enhancing the updated FSU case management system, improving referral pathways, and addressing issues related to juvenile delinquency. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve the handling of SGBV cases and ensure professional, victim-centered service delivery nationwide.
Representing the Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, the Director of Training, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Joe Kamanda Bongay, urged participants to treat the training with seriousness and professionalism. He stressed the importance of strict adherence to established SOPs, noting that the knowledge gained would significantly enhance service delivery and case management across the country.
Head of the FSU, Detective Superintendent Mohamed S. Y. Mansaray, cautioned officers against unprofessional conduct and personal interests in the execution of their duties. He emphasised that the FSU’s core mandate is to protect vulnerable persons and must operate with integrity, in line with the Inspector General’s vision of transforming the SLP from a force into a service-oriented institution.
Representatives of the Rainbow Initiative, Technical Adviser Sam Anthony and Programme Manager Maimuna Mohammed Fido, encouraged participants to remain focused and committed to strengthening investigative and support practices in the fight against SGBV nationwide.
Speaking on behalf of the Commandant of SILEA, Deputy Superintendent of Police Daniel D. Sovula reminded officers of the Sierra Leone Police Code of Conduct, particularly Regulation 47, urging them to make responsible and effective use of the opportunity provided.
The training was facilitated by the FSU under the leadership of Deputy Superintendent of Police Betty Josephine Johnson-Williams, who also serves as Deputy Head of the Unit.
