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The Sierra Leone Police has appointed Assistant Inspector General Esther Mary Kaintor-Dukuray as the new Regional Commander for the North-East Region, making her the first woman to hold the position in the region’s history.
The appointment, made by Inspector General William Faiya Sellu, marks a significant shift in a force long dominated by male leadership at the top tier . Dukuray formally assumed command in Makeni on April 1, 2026, succeeding retired AIG Victor Manfred Williams.
Outgoing AIG Victor Manfred Williams, who used a brief closed-door handover to thank the force for “a fulfilling career,” called on all police units and the public to offer their full support to the new commander . He emphasised that her leadership represents a broader step forward for the region beyond gender.
Williams was among 10 senior police officers promoted to the rank of AIG in September 2024, at which time he was appointed Acting REGPOL for the North-East region.
In her response, AIG Dukuray expressed appreciation for her predecessor’s stewardship and pledged to uphold professionalism in the discharge of her duties. She assured the public of strengthened safety measures and a commitment to delivering effective and sincere security services.
A seasoned officer with a track record in both operations and administration, Dukuray previously served as Local Unit Commander in Makeni and is widely regarded within the ranks for her disciplined, professional style . She also previously served as Acting Director of Corporate Affairs.
Her elevation is being viewed within policing circles as part of a broader push toward inclusivity at senior levels. Regional commanders and department heads have welcomed the move as a milestone and pledged full support.
Dukuray now takes charge at a time of evolving security demands across the North-East region, tasked with translating reform rhetoric into effective, community-centred policing .
