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The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) presented its Pre-Trial Detention Monitoring Report to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG Sahr Yomba Senesi, on Thursday, 21st May 2026.
The report, produced in commemoration of Africa Pre-Trial Detention Day observed annually on 25th April, highlights key findings on detention conditions and compliance with human rights standards within police detention facilities across the country.
Furthermore, presenting the report on behalf of the Commission, Mrs Patricia Nasu Ndenema stated that the monitoring exercise was conducted in line with Sections 7(2)(g) and 24(1) of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone Act No. 9 of 2004, which mandates the Commission to monitor and report on the state of human rights in Sierra Leone.
According to the Commission, the exercise covered 12 police stations nationwide and aimed to assess compliance with the Luanda Guidelines and national laws governing the treatment of persons in pre-trial detention. It also sought to identify human rights violations and recommend reforms geared towards improving detention conditions within police facilities.
Additionally, the Commission disclosed that 12 monitoring teams were deployed across the Western, North-Western, Northern, Eastern, and Southern Regions. During the exercise, the teams inspected detention cells, toilet and water facilities, and interviewed Local Unit Commanders, crime officers, detention officers, and 332 detainees, comprising 320 males, 10 females, and two juveniles.
Receiving the report, DIG Senesi thanked the Commission for what he described as a holistic and inclusive report.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Inspector General of Police and the management of the Sierra Leone Police to thoroughly review the findings and address the issues raised in line with international best practices.
