The Sierra Leone Police has assured Sierra Leoneans that they will fit to manage the security of the West African nation ahead of its elections.

Police Chief, William Fayia Sellu said they are collaborating with other security sectors under the auspices of the Office of National Security (ONS). He added that they are ready to provide security in both pre and post election period.

The Inspector General’s affirmation came days after the Force’s OSD North-East Regional Commander, Mathew Gbanya was gunned down in the northern city of Makeni by an unknown assailant.

The macabre death has been condemned widely by government, political parties, trade unions and civil society organisations.

Earlier, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla was worrisome for the safety of journalists that would be covering the elections. He said the killing and targeting of police officers is worrisome.

IG Sellu said the killing of ASP Gbanya is threat not only to the Northern Region but also to regions in the country.

He affirmed that they are mandated to protect the lives of all citizens irrespective of political affiliation. He promised that they currently investigating the death of ASP Gbanya and would soon bring out the culprit.