The National Communication Authority (NatCA), paid a courtesy call on the Regional Police Commander South, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Brima Kanneh on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.

The meeting, held in AIG Kanneh’s office in Bo City, aimed to establish a collaborative partnership between NatCA and the police force, with the common goal of reducing cybercrimes that have become a growing concern in the region.

Tommy Pessima, the Regional Manager of NatCA in the South, outlined the challenges faced by the organization in carrying out its regulatory responsibilities. He emphasized the need to work closely with the Cyber Unit of the Police to combat crimes such as Orange Money thefts, identity thefts, and insults directed at authorities.

“The commission is charged with the responsibility to regulate all mobile companies and collaborate with the Cyber Unit in the Police to trace criminals involved in various cyber offenses,” Pessima explained.

He also raised concerns about physical attacks on NatCA staff when they operate without police presence, underlining the importance of a secure working environment.

AIG Brima Kanneh, the Regional Police Commander South, welcomed the delegation from NatCA and expressed his readiness to support their efforts in tackling cybercrimes. He acknowledged that his desk had received numerous cases related to identity theft, insults against authorities, and Orange Money theft, making him keen to cooperate with the commission.

“I have had so many cases on my table investigated, ranging from Identity Theft, Insult on Authorities, and Orange Money Theft; so I welcomed the idea, and I am prepared to work with the commission,” AIG Kanneh affirmed.

He further requested the commission’s cooperation in providing “CALL LOG” data to the Police when incidents of the highlighted offenses are reported to the station.

AIG Kanneh emphasized the significance of building a formidable working relationship, partnership, and collaboration between NatCA and the police force. He believed that with joint efforts, communication fraud would soon become history not only in the Southern Region but in Sierra Leone as a whole.

The courtesy call signifies a pivotal step in addressing the increasing prevalence of cybercrimes in the region and fostering a safer digital environment for the citizens of Sierra Leone. NatCA and the Regional Police Commander South are now set to work hand-in-hand to combat cyber offenses and ensure the security of both individuals and businesses in the Southern Region.