Post a comment
The Sierra Leone Commission on Arms and Ammunition (SLeCAA) destroyed over 5,000 unserviceable state owned weapons during a symbolic event held at the Murray Town Barracks on Wednesday, 26th February, 2025.
Commissioner Christian Fahima Marah welcomed attendees and emphasized that the destruction of unserviceable weapons would extend to other military barracks across the country, including those in Benguema, Teko, Gondama, Kambia, and Kenema. The initiative was set to last for an entire month as part of SLeCAA’s ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and security.
Marah reiterated SLeCAA’s commitment to regulating arms possession and trade in accordance with international best practices. He highlighted that the commission had previously received support from the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in November 2024 to acquire the necessary equipment for the weapons’ destruction.
Moses Beyemen Miller, Chairman of the Advisory Committee at SLeCAA, affirmed the government’s dedication to enforcing international treaties related to arms and ammunition. He warned that unserviceable weapons pose a real threat to both security and the wellbeing of citizens.
John Martin Senesie, Assistant Inspector General of Police, voiced the police’s support for the destruction process, tying the initiative to improved organization within police armories. “The destruction of unserviceable weapons helps keep our armory tidy,” Senesie noted.
German Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jens Kraus-Masse, praised SLeCAA for effectively managing arms in the country. He emphasized the significance of controlling arms to combat terrorism, referencing threats from the Sahel Region.
Elizabeth Augustus Turay, representing the Minister of Internal Affairs, described the destruction of weapons as a vital measure in safeguarding the nation. She raised concerns over the existence of small unserviceable weapons, noting their potential to undermine peace and security. Turay recalled the tragic legacy of weapons left over from Sierra Leone’s 11-year Civil War, which she said, contributed to the establishment of SLeCAA in 2010.
Turay concluded by assuring that the Ministry would continue to support SLeCAA in its efforts to eliminate unserviceable weapons and maintain the safety of all citizens.
