Hastings, 2 July 2026 — The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, has commissioned a state-of-the-art Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) Forensic Laboratory at Hastings. .
This marks a significant milestone in strengthening scientific investigations into transnational organised crime, particularly illicit drug trafficking.
The new facility provides a conducive working environment for the Police Forensic Laboratory and houses key administrative offices. It further enhances the Sierra Leone Police’s capacity to conduct evidence-based investigations and deliver improved criminal justice outcomes.
In his keynote address, IGP Sellu described the commissioning of the laboratory as a major step towards enhancing forensic capabilities and securing successful prosecutions through credible scientific evidence.
He emphasised that forensic evidence remains one of the most reliable forms of evidence presented in court and commended Forensic Analyst ASP Steven for his professionalism, expertise, and dedication.
The IGP disclosed that the laboratory had been relocated from Connaught Hospital to Hastings to ensure the Sierra Leone Police maintains full control over its forensic equipment and operations.
He also directed that officers previously trained in forensic investigations be identified and redeployed to reactivate the dormant forensic laboratory at Police Headquarters, Kingtom.
Highlighting his vision for institutional transformation, IGP Sellu urged police personnel to develop clear career paths, specialise in their respective fields, and prioritise institution-building over personal interests.
He noted that the establishment of the TOCU Forensic Laboratory forms part of broader efforts to address longstanding institutional gaps through improved infrastructure, specialised training, and the provision of modern policing equipment.
Reflecting on key achievements under his leadership, the IGP cited the construction of the Police Mortuary; the completion of the Aberdeen Police Station, the Ross Road Regional Police Headquarters, and the Matru Jong Police Station; the extensive rehabilitation and expansion of Police Headquarters; and the transformation of the Police Hospital with support from international partners.
He encouraged TOCU personnel to make effective use of the new facility, noting that the enhanced forensic capacity would contribute significantly to higher conviction rates in court.
The IGP further acknowledged the support of partner agencies, particularly through the National Taskforce, whose collaborative efforts have strengthened the fight against narcotic offences.
The IGP assured officers of his continued commitment to the laboratory, stating that any resources required to further enhance its operations would receive his full support.
He expressed confidence that sustained commitment, professionalism, and teamwork would continue to transform the Sierra Leone Police into a stronger and more effective institution.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Chief Andrew Jaiah Kaikai, described the commissioning as a strategic investment in strengthening Sierra Leone’s response to transnational organised crime and illicit drug trafficking. He said the facility demonstrates the Government’s commitment to building resilient institutions capable of responding to evolving security threats.
Chief Kaikai commended IGP Sellu for the remarkable transformation and professionalism demonstrated by the Sierra Leone Police since 2023. He praised the IGP’s hands-on leadership and unwavering commitment to institutional development.
Representing the Director of Crime Services, the Head of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), ACP Alieu Jalloh, underscored the importance of scientific evidence in modern policing. He noted that forensic analysis offers greater reliability than eyewitness testimony and expressed confidence that the new laboratory would significantly enhance criminal investigations and overall service delivery.
He also thanked the IGP for his continued support in strengthening the Criminal Investigation Department through infrastructure development and capacity-building initiatives.
The ceremony was attended by members of the Sierra Leone Police Executive Management Board, representatives of the Office of National Security, officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and other key stakeholders from the security sector. Speakers unanimously emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration in combating transnational organised crime and safeguarding national security.
SLP Media Team
