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The Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Sierra Leone Police Central Division, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) John Tumbay, has issued a stern warning to squatters occupying the Right of Way (ROW) along the perimeter fence of the Freetown Secondary School for Girls (FSSG), urging them to vacate the area ahead of an impending demolition exercise.
ACP Tumbay delivered the warning on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, during a visit to the site, describing the engagement as a proactive step aimed at ensuring a peaceful process while preventing the destruction of traders’ goods during the planned operation.
Addressing the occupants, the police chief explained that the engagement was a follow-up to a Quit Notice earlier issued by the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA). He emphasized that the visit should be regarded as a final warning to individuals still occupying the restricted area.
ACP Tumbay noted that during previous demolition exercises, some affected persons had appeared in the media claiming they were not adequately informed beforehand. To prevent similar claims and promote transparency, he said the warning was deliberately issued in public view and in the presence of media personnel.
Clarifying the role of the Sierra Leone Police, ACP Tumbay stressed that the police do not carry out demolitions, but rather provide security for the SLRA, which is legally mandated to clear all encroachments along road reserves and public rights of way.
“The responsibility of demolition lies with the SLRA. Our duty as police officers is to maintain law and order and ensure that the Authority carries out its statutory functions without obstruction,” he stated.
He advised squatters and traders with concerns about the exercise—particularly regarding timelines—to engage directly with the SLRA for clarification and possible guidance.
ACP Tumbay appealed for cooperation from all affected persons, urging them to comply peacefully in the interest of public safety, orderly urban development, and respect for the rule of law.
The exercise forms part of ongoing government efforts, through the SLRA and other relevant agencies, to reclaim road reserves and protect public spaces across Freetown as part of broader urban management and development initiatives.
