The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) of Mano River Division, have officially lunched a new group of Community Safety Volunteers (CSVs), trained to enhance law and order in Zimmi Makpele Chiefdom, Pujehun District.

The event, which was held at a community level, was presided over by Chief Superintendent of Police, Albert Philip Kpangay.

With an eye towards reducing crime and maintaining law and order, the initiative aims to empower both young men and women in the chiefdom.

During the ceremony, the Paramount Chief of Zimmi Makpele, Hon. PC Saffa M. Tamu, expressed his gratitude to CSP Kpangay and his team.

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“We beat our chest today with pride to work with the Police and CSVs. But we must stop aiding wrongdoers and start protecting our community by reporting suspicious strangers,” he urged, highlighting the vital role of the CSVs in building safer communities.

The Chief also called on local chiefs to collaborate with security forces to ensure peace and safety within their jurisdictions. He strongly encouraged volunteers to work closely with the police and report any criminal matters promptly.

During the event, the Speaker of the Chiefdom praised the initiative and urged the CSVs to remain committed to their duties. “Patience and discipline are key,” he stated, commending community members for supporting the cause.

In their support for the initiative, various Town Chiefs, including Zimmi Town Chief, Pa Abdulai Massaquoi and Niagorehun’s Mohamed Konneh, extended full support to the CSVs, reinforcing the collaboration needed to tackle local issues. “We must work together to combat livestock thefts,” noted Town Chief Musa Bao of Palema, who also acknowledged the efforts of Operations Officer, Inspector Dukuray in training the local youth.

Community representation was further emphasized by Pewa Town Chief Bockarie Fofanah, who encouraged the CSVs to uphold mutual respect, while Chiefdom Chairlady Madam Jebbeh Kposowa expressed hope for increased female participation in future CSV training sessions.

The Youth Chairman, Mr. Kangaju Kuyateh urged volunteers to act responsibly and remind them of the importance of impartiality. “You now have the right to engage closely with the Sierra Leone Police,” he remarked.

Madam Baby Tiffa, Chairlady of Zimmi Section, echoed sentiments regarding the CSVs’ potential to foster a more respectful community discourse, especially concerning women.

Mr. Ibrahim Kawa called for training of CSVs in remote areas where police access is challenging, while LPPB Chairman Mr. Konneh emphasized the commitment needed from local communities to mitigate police accessibility issues.

Inspector Juldeh Jalloh, Officer in Charge of the Zimmi Police Station, recognized the valuable support from the CSVs. “Your involvement is critical in helping secure your communities,” he said.

In addressing the CSVs, Captain Kamara, head of the military in Zimmi, stressed that “CSVs stand for Community Safety and Volunteerism,” urging volunteers to act with integrity and uphold local values.

As a sign of continued community support, Mr. Samuel from Zimmi Radio Media encouraged residents to utilize the station’s security hour to voice concerns. He also praised the performance of CSP Kpangay and his team.

The representative from the Office of National Security (ONS) in Zimmi, Mr. Abdulai Kallon, provided clarity on lawful arrest and underscored the significance of cooperation between CSVs and the police. He encouraged ongoing education on CSV roles.

Testifying to the impact of CSVs, Chief Jenkins Setua of Kengo Section shared a positive experience, noting a decrease in crime rates since the volunteers’ implementation.

The program concluded with impactful remarks from Inspector Mohamed Dukuray, who educated CSVs on adhering to their duties while emphasizing that, “Only Allah will reward you for your service.”

The ceremony ended with celebratory cultural dances, marking the hopeful beginning of a new chapter in community safety efforts in Zimmi Makpele Chiefdom.