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The Eastern Regional Police Command has strengthened its community policing efforts by engaging traditional leaders in Kenema City as part of measures to improve public safety, strengthen collaboration, and maintain peace and order.
The meeting, held at the Eastern Regional Police Headquarters, was chaired by the Eastern Regional Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Joe Kamanda Bongay, who hosted a delegation of eleven tribal heads from across Kenema City.
The engagement focused on strengthening cooperation between the police and traditional authorities to enhance intelligence gathering, promote peaceful coexistence, and address community concerns through collaboration.
Speaking during the meeting, ACP Bongay, on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Mr William Fayia Sellu, reaffirmed the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to community-based policing. He emphasised that effective policing depends on strong partnerships with local communities and noted that collaboration with traditional leaders has consistently contributed to successful crime prevention and public safety initiatives.
To improve police visibility and enhance operational effectiveness, ACP Bongay announced that Kenema City has been divided into nine security zones. He explained that the initiative is intended to improve the delivery of policing services, strengthen rapid response capabilities, and ensure a more coordinated security presence across the city.
Representing the tribal leaders, the Madigo Tribal Head, Mr Ismail Sesay, welcomed the initiative and pledged the continued support of traditional authorities. He said tribal leaders are well positioned to provide timely information to the police, help resolve community disputes, and encourage residents to respect the law and maintain peaceful coexistence.
The meeting concluded with the Eastern Regional Police Command and the tribal heads reaffirming their commitment to sustained cooperation, information sharing, and joint efforts aimed at enhancing public confidence and ensuring lasting peace and security in Kenema City.
