A crucial Police-Military Security Cooperation (POMIC) workshop took place in Kenema, Eastern Sierra Leone, aimed at strengthening collaboration among various security agencies.
The event gathered personnel from the Sierra Leone Police, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, and the National Fire Force.
The workshop was officially opened by Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Francis Moses Tawer, the Regional Police Commander for the East.
AIG Tawer welcomed the attendees and assured them of their safety in the region. He emphasized the importance of a strong relationship between the police and other security forces, stating, “Joint efforts in maintaining peace and security are essential.” He also cautioned against any actions that could betray the trust necessary for effective inter-agency cooperation.
AIG Andrew M. Kamara, representing the Inspector General of Police, addressed the participants on behalf of the police leadership. He affirmed the shared commitment among police and military leaders to enhance collaboration, urging attendees to implement these cooperative efforts within their respective institutions.
Brigadier General George Mamuud Bangura, speaking for the Chief of Defence Staff, stressed the critical nature of cooperation between the police and armed forces. He noted, “Unity and synergy are crucial for effective security management,” reinforcing the need for collaborative approaches to security challenges.
The Eastern Region Provincial Security Coordinator (PRoSEC) delivered a keynote address, underscoring the importance of coordinated security efforts. He praised the established security cooperation framework and encouraged all stakeholders to continue working diligently to maintain peace and stability in Sierra Leone.
Throughout the workshop, presentations addressed the historical context of the civil war, its impact on civilians, and the factors that led to the establishment of POMIC. Participants discussed the challenges faced in collaboration and offered recommendations for improving ongoing security cooperation.
The event concluded with a collective commitment from all participants to enhance regional security, guided by the principles of POMIC as a foundational element of their operations.