Two Sierra Leone Police Officers to Pursue master’s degrees in forensic science in India
Kanja Sesay Two officers of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) are preparing to travel to India to pursue master’s degrees in forensic science as part of efforts to strengthen criminal investigations and improve the Force’s technical capabilities.
The initiative, announced on Friday, October 30, 2026, forms part of the Inspector-General of Police William Fayia Sellu’s ongoing efforts to enhance professionalism, develop specialised expertise and modernise policing in Sierra Leone.
The officers received their travel tickets during an official handover ceremony held at the Directorate of Training, Police Headquarters, in Freetown.
The advanced academic programme is expected to equip them with specialised knowledge in forensic investigation, scientific evidence analysis and modern crime detection techniques.
During the ceremony, Acting Director of Training, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) John Fayiah Tumbay, formally presented the travel documents to the two officers.
Addressing the beneficiaries, ACP Tumbay encouraged them to approach their studies with discipline, dedication and professionalism.
He reminded them that they would be representing both Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Police throughout their academic programme in India.
The Acting Director of Training urged the officers to demonstrate exemplary conduct and make full use of the opportunity to acquire specialised skills.
He also emphasised the importance of returning with knowledge that could contribute to improving the Force’s investigative capacity and overall service delivery.
Following the completion of their studies, the two officers are expected to contribute to the development of forensic investigation practices within the Sierra Leone Police.
Their training could support efforts to strengthen scientific approaches to criminal investigations and improve the handling of evidence.
The initiative is also expected to contribute to institutional capacity building by introducing additional specialist expertise into the Force.
Improved forensic capabilities can assist investigators in examining complex cases and presenting reliable evidence during judicial proceedings.
The SLP hopes that investing in advanced training will contribute to more effective investigations and improved public confidence in police services.
The initiative forms part of Inspector-General William Fayia Sellu’s broader efforts to strengthen the professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Sierra Leone Police.
Under this approach, specialised training and human resource development remain important areas of focus.
Providing officers with opportunities to acquire advanced qualifications is intended to help the Force respond more effectively to evolving security and investigative challenges.
The decision to support postgraduate studies in forensic science also highlights the growing importance of technical expertise in modern law enforcement.
As the two officers prepare to begin their studies in India, the Sierra Leone Police has reaffirmed its commitment to investing in personnel development and improving service delivery.
Their expected return with advanced forensic knowledge represents an opportunity to strengthen scientific investigations and support the administration of justice in Sierra Leone.