Sierra Leone Police Tests New Tear-Gas Drone in Freetown
Guest Contributor The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has tested a newly equipped tear-gas drone to assess its functionality, operational readiness and potential application in crowd management and public-order operations, with public safety, respect for human rights and the preservation of life remaining paramount.
The exercise took place at several locations across Freetown and involved the Head of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Department, ASP David A. Mbayo, and members of the Police Drone Team at Police Headquarters.
The initiative forms part of the efforts of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, to modernise policing and enhance operational effectiveness through the responsible use of technology in delivering professional policing services to the people of Sierra Leone.
ASP David A Mbayo emphasised that the use of this equipment must be guided by strict safeguards, lawful procedures and a clear commitment to protecting the public. ASP David A. Mbayo stressed that any operational deployment must comply with the law and established procedures, with appropriate training, effective supervision and safeguards in place to minimise harm.
He further underscored the importance of preventing indiscriminate exposure to tear gas, particularly among vulnerable individuals, and ensuring that the safety and rights of members of the public are protected at all times. The use of technology in policing, he noted, must remain consistent with the principles of accountability, professionalism and respect for human rights.
The Sierra Leone Police reiterates that the preservation of life, the protection of human rights and the safety of the public must remain central to all police operations. The SLP remains committed to adopting technology responsibly, ensuring that operational effectiveness goes hand in hand with appropriate safeguards, accountability and people-centred policing.
