The top leadership of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) held a crucial meeting with a delegation of paramount chiefs from Bombali District at Police Headquarters on George Street, Freetown.

The discussions centered on bolstering community policing initiatives across chiefdoms within the district.

Paramount Chief Bai Bairoh III, representing the collective views of the chiefs, praised the positive impact of community policing on security. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the police and local authorities to address security challenges. The chief commended the SLP’s efforts, especially highlighting the strengthened relationship between police divisions, regional commanders, and the communities they serve.

Chief Bairoh III recalled the tenure of Deputy Inspector General of Police (D/IGP) Samadia as North-East Regional Commander, which he described as a high point in Bombali District’s security management. He urged SLP leadership to maintain the robust policing framework established under Samadia’s command and suggested its nationwide implementation to enhance national security.

Responding to the chiefs, Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu reaffirmed the SLP’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across all chiefdoms. He reiterated the importance of the Local Needs Policing model introduced by D/IGP Samadia and stressed the necessity of community involvement in policing efforts.

IGP Sellu reflected on past challenges in Bombali, including a tragic incident where a senior officer, ‘Boika,’ was fatally shot, which underscored the need for strong leadership. He praised Samadia’s community-oriented approach, crediting it with restoring security and public trust during a critical period.

The meeting concluded with discussions on strategies to ensure continued community engagement and security improvements in Bombali District.