Post a comment 
The Community Safety Volunteers (CSV) and local leaders in Gombu have become central to public safety efforts as the Kenema Divisional Police strengthen community policing amid limited manpower and stretched resources.
At a meeting with residents and members of the Local Policing Partnership Board (LPPB), Local Unit Commander Emmanuel Kpulun disclosed that the police face a significant staffing challenge, with a ratio of about one officer to 800 civilians. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with CSVs and LPPB members, noting that neighbourhood intelligence and community vigilance are vital for crime prevention.
CSV members described their work as patrols, reporting suspicious activities, and linking residents with the police, while also calling for better recognition and support, including identification cards to enhance trust and visibility. Councillor David Aiah Nabie echoed this appeal, urging improved ID provision for volunteers.
Commander Kpulun warned against misuse of CSV identification and stressed that volunteers must operate within the law, adding that anyone found harbouring criminals would face prosecution.
Local chiefs and residents praised the partnership, with Chief Lahai Lavalii commending CSV integrity and linking improved public order to growing cooperation. Residents also noted increased confidence in reporting crimes due to the presence of organised volunteers.
However, security experts and advocates cautioned that while the model is promising, it requires formal training, clear operational boundaries to prevent vigilantism, and better logistical support such as ID cards, communication tools, and faster police response systems.
The initiative forms part of a wider Sierra Leone Police effort to institutionalise community policing across Kenema, with both police and community leaders agreeing that public safety increasingly depends on organised and accountable local participation.
