The Sierra Leone Police has given explanation why the Force introduced a new police ranking structure. The new police ranking structure comprises 17 ranks, from the Inspector General of Police to Recruiters.

The new ranking structure was announced following approval by the Police Council. The Police Force maintained that all future promotion in the Police will reflect the new ranking structure.

The new ranking structure according to the police will ensure proper succession planning within the Sierra Leone police force.

It will also provides for the capacitation of the police force to manage the span of control and align the chain of command and will also provide for gradual acquisition of knowledge and expertise over time which will bolster personnel professionalism and confidence which in turn increases productivity.