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Residents of Susan’s Bay are calling for urgent reinforcement of police presence following a fatal stabbing that has intensified fears over rising insecurity in the densely populated coastal settlement.
Susan’s Bay, located near Freetown’s central business district, is home to an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 people. Community leaders say the area faces persistent challenges, including overcrowding, poor sanitation, and frequent criminal activity.
Tensions escalated after the March 21 killing of Abubakarr Jeremaya Kamara, who was reportedly stabbed during a confrontation with a man identified as Pa So Marrah. The suspect remains at large, with residents alleging he has a history of violent behavior.
Community stakeholders argue that limited police presence has contributed to an environment where such incidents can occur with little deterrence.
According to local leaders, the two police posts serving Susan’s Bay and nearby Customs area are severely under-resourced.
They report that staffing is critically low, with only four personnel—including the Officer Commanding—responsible for covering the entire community. In addition, unreliable electricity supply hampers operations, especially at night, when communication becomes difficult due to uncharged devices.
The physical condition of the police posts has also been described as poor, while logistical support remains minimal. Officers often rely on assistance from the Community Policing Partnership Board, a volunteer group that supports law enforcement efforts, though availability is inconsistent.
Residents also point to increasing drug use, particularly involving Kush, as a contributing factor to rising violence. Despite several joint operations by police and community partners targeting drug activity, stakeholders say the problem persists.
Reports indicate that some youths in the community have become involved in substance abuse, contributing to incidents of violence and growing tensions with elders.
Community leaders are now appealing to senior police authorities, including the Inspector General of Police, to deploy more officers and provide essential equipment to improve security operations in Susan’s Bay.
While acknowledging the efforts of local officers and community volunteers, residents stress that without stronger institutional support, the situation could deteriorate further.
They warn that protecting lives and restoring order in one of Freetown’s most vulnerable communities will require sustained commitment and resources from the state.
