Police Engage Traditional Leaders to Strengthen Community Safety in Kissy
Sahid Bangura The Sierra Leone Police have engaged traditional leaders in Kissy Division to strengthen police-community relations, improve crime prevention and promote peace and security across communities in eastern Freetown.
The engagement was led by the newly transferred Local Unit Commander (LUC) of Kissy Division, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Alphonso A. Fambulleh, on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
The meeting brought together the divisional leadership, including Support Officer Siaka Kamara, Community Relations Department (CRD) Coordinator Chief Inspector Josephine Kamara, Officer Commanding Wellington Police Post ASP Patricia, and traditional leaders from communities within the division.
During the meeting, the participants emphasised the importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation between the police and traditional authorities in addressing security concerns and maintaining peaceful communities.
Speaking at the engagement, Support Officer Siaka Kamara highlighted the Sierra Leone Police’s transition from a force-oriented institution to a service-oriented organisation, stressing that public trust and community participation remain essential to effective policing.
Representing the traditional leaders, Chief Pa Alhaji Sorie Konnah raised concerns about the recognition and respect accorded to traditional authorities in eastern Freetown. He also outlined challenges affecting their ability to discharge their responsibilities and called for stronger police support and more regular engagement.
Konnah reaffirmed the traditional leaders’ willingness to collaborate with the police to maintain peace and security in their communities.
In his address, CSP Fambulleh underscored the role of traditional leaders in preventing crime and promoting community safety. He urged them to share relevant information with the police, assist investigations and cooperate with officers in tackling criminal activities.
The divisional commander assured the leaders that he and his team would visit their respective communities to strengthen communication, mutual respect and cooperation between the police and residents.
The engagement also featured traditional songs, reflecting the cultural significance of the gathering.
Chief Haja Ya Alimamy Sebba Turay of Brima Lane Community delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for the meeting and the opportunity to engage directly with the divisional police leadership.
The engagement forms part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the police and traditional authorities in supporting crime prevention and maintaining peace and security across Kissy Division.