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The Sierra Leone Formed Police Unit (SLFPU-6) has been declared “fit for deployment” by the African Union Formed Police Unit Assessment Team following a thorough evaluation conducted from November 12 to 15, 2024, at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy (SILEA).
The unit is now set to join the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
ACP Emmanuel Lithakong Ntpaba, leader of the assessment team, commended SLFPU-6 for meeting the African Union’s international standards. “Congratulations to the Unit for successfully completing the assessment,” he announced. “I am pleased to declare you fit for deployment to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia.”
The rigorous assessment included literacy tests, command proficiency interviews, driving evaluations, weapon-handling exercises, and medical fitness reviews. Participants showcased their ability to assemble and disassemble pistols (CF98) and rifles (AK47) while also demonstrating operational readiness in simulated exercises.
ACP John Fayiah Tumbay, Head of Peacekeeping Operations for the Sierra Leone Police, detailed the extensive selection process leading to this achievement. Out of over 600 initial applicants, fewer than 300 advanced past internal evaluations. Following further training, the final group of 200 was narrowed down to 160 for deployment, with others kept in reserve.
“You have all excelled and earned this certification. Now, your deployment is a testament to your dedication,” ACP Tumbay stated, expressing pride in the Unit’s preparedness and optimism for their mission in Somalia.
The announcement was met with celebration among the personnel, who posed for photographs alongside instructors and assessment team members. The Unit’s readiness signifies a major milestone for Sierra Leone’s contributions to international peacekeeping efforts.
