Freetown, 28 July 2025 – The Sierra Leone Police (SLP), in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has commenced a two-day training workshop aimed at promoting integrity within law enforcement institutions.
The workshop, held at the Police Wives Association Multi-Purpose Hall in Kingtom, is being conducted under the theme: “Mainstreaming Integrity in the Operations of Law Enforcement Agencies.”
The training brings together officers from the SLP, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), the Motor Drivers Union, and the Bike Riders Union, with the goal of fostering transparency, professionalism, and ethical standards in daily operations.
Welcoming participants, Assistant Inspector General of Police and Director of Training, Mr Andrew Mustapha Kamara, stressed that the purpose of the workshop was not to assign blame, but to encourage open and constructive dialogue on tackling corruption and enhancing the image of the police.
Delivering the keynote address, ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala Esq. described the initiative as a progressive step by the SLP towards institutional reform.
He acknowledged the long-standing advisory partnership between the ACC and the police and commended the leadership for taking ownership of anti-corruption efforts.
Commissioner Kaifala pointed out that while public perception surveys often rank the SLP as the most corrupt institution, this does not imply that all police officers are corrupt.
He attributed the perception to the frequent interaction between police and the public, which increases exposure and scrutiny. He applauded officers who continue to perform their duties professionally and with integrity, despite systemic challenges.
Highlighting some of the difficulties faced by the police, Commissioner Kaifala emphasised the need for better conditions of service, including improved salaries. He acknowledged government efforts to address wage concerns, noting the limitations imposed by budgetary constraints.
He concluded by urging all members of the security sector to hold one another accountable and maintain high ethical standards in their interactions with the public, which he said would play a crucial role in rebuilding public trust.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Mr Sahr Yomba Senessi officially opened the workshop.
He conveyed greetings from IGP William Fayia Sellu and welcomed the initiative, noting that perception surveys serve as a valuable tool for self-assessment and institutional improvement.
DIG Senessi encouraged participants to actively engage in the sessions and leverage the training as a platform for positive change. He also called for a united front among law enforcement and stakeholder bodies in the fight against corruption.
The training will be held over two days, targeting officers from both the Western Area Eastern and Western Regions.
SLP Media Team.
