The Sierra Leone Police Force’s Community Relations Department, following instructions from the Inspector General of Police, teamed up with CRD teams from Eastern, Harbour, and Kissy Police Divisions, along with members of the Local Policing Partnership Board (LPPB). On Tuesday, January 16, 2024, they conducted a peace and nonviolence sensitization campaign across multiple communities within the Harbour Division.

In recent times, law enforcement agencies around the world have recognized the importance of fostering positive relationships with the communities they serve through an initiative called Community Policing. This proactive approach utilizes members of the community to help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the citizens by fostering understanding, trust, and a shared commitment to creating a safer and more harmonious community.

Prior to the sensitization, the Local Unit Commander of the Harbour Division CSP Emmanuel Kpulun welcomed the CRD Team that was led by Superintendent Sao Conteh and encouraged the personnel to exhibit high professionalism in delivering their peace and nonviolent messages to community members.

Supt. Sao Conteh also added that sensitization programs play a crucial role in dispelling misconceptions and building trust within communities.

Going forward, the team visited several communities including the Up Gun Community, Keke Union Head Office at Black Hall Road, Mamba Ridge Moyeba Community, Bottom Mango, PWD, Africanus Road, Ferry Junction, and Bike Riders Union Head Office, Race Course Community.

Among the key messages preached to the residents of these communities, the CRD and LPPB team emphasized that peace is paramount for the development of any nation.

Key speakers like Supt. Sao Conteh, Melbourne Greene (LPPB), Sgt. 9585 Dumbuya E.S, and Sgt 8623 Turay M.B, warned members of the public to be law-abiding and avoid political conflict.

In addition, the National Deputy Chairlady of Bike Riders Josephine Nansu Yarjah pleaded with her members and community people to refrain from causing violence and to avoid any form of violence that may hinder the peace and development of the country.

Several passersby applauded the effort of the team and promised to inform their relatives about the importance of sustaining peace and the need to refrain from violence as preached by the police.