In a significant move aimed at enhancing the cyber capabilities of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), a delegation of experts led by retired United States Army Colonel, Jerry Torres, met with Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu.
The meeting, which took place at the George Street Office in Freetown, marked a pivotal step in advancing the SLP’s efforts in cybercrime prevention and investigation.
The primary objective of the visit was to gain insights into the success of the cyber lab and to provide advanced training and software development. This collaboration seeks to empower cyber personnel to proficiently track and analyze data from cell phones, as well as undergo cyber forensic training. Mr. Torres praised IGP Fayia Sellu’s leadership role in ensuring the cyber lab’s effectiveness and functionality, expressing satisfaction with the opportunity to interact with the Cyber Investigation Unit’s personnel.
During the meeting, IGP Sellu expressed gratitude for the exceptional support provided by Mr. Jerry Torres and his team in establishing the cyber lab.
He emphasized that the lab’s establishment had yielded dividends in the fight against cyber-related crimes in the country. Notably, the lab’s efforts have led to the apprehension, investigation, and prosecution of numerous offenders, significantly aiding in the dispensation of justice.
Highlighting the effectiveness of the cyber lab, IGP Sellu remarked, “I consistently regard our cyber lab as one of Africa’s best, second only to South Africa.”
He disclosed that collaborative plans were underway with Immigration, the National Civil Registration Authority, and mobile network operators to enhance tracing and tracking of cyber offenders. With the implementation of the national identification number (NIN), the SLP aims to streamline the process of tracing offenders. IGP Sellu urged network operators to refrain from street sales of activated SIM cards, as this practice has hindered cyber-related investigations.
Recognizing the value of partnerships, IGP Sellu acknowledged that collaboration with these three entities would significantly amplify the Cyber Investigation Unit’s ability to track and combat cybercrime across the country. The meeting concluded with an inspection of the Cyber Investigation Unit, marking the commencement of a three-day training program for unit personnel.
Credit: SLP MEDIA TEAM
