The International Earthmoving and Construction Company (IECC) has officially begun construction of a modern police barracks, which will feature 64 apartments, along Peninsula Road in York.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on February 1, 2025, and the project is expected to span 18 months. This development marks a significant advancement in the ongoing public-private partnership between IECC and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP).
At the sod-turning ceremony for the new police facilities—which will also include a police station, health center, and school—the Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor (Esq.), emphasized President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to human capital development.
He stated that the initiative aims to address the welfare challenges faced by police personnel and is part of the government’s “Big Five Game Changers.”
He encouraged officers to maintain professionalism, advising them to avoid political involvement and to leave such matters to elected officials.
IGP William Fayia Sellu, the police chief, explained that the construction of these facilities is a key component of the SLP’s Strategic Development Plan (2025-2029). This plan seeks to improve the welfare of police personnel as the SLP transitions from a traditional force to a service-oriented institution.
He highlighted that this project is part of a broader range of infrastructural improvements, which also includes a state-of-the-art facility in Mattru, renovations at the Bamoi Luma Police Station, and the forthcoming completion of the Freetown-East Regional Headquarters on Ross Road. Additionally, boreholes are being installed in eight police barracks.
IGP Sellu voiced concerns regarding the potential misuse of the facilities within the barracks and announced that regular inspections will be conducted to uphold high standards.
He also shared plans to revitalize the police Block Factory in Makomp Village, Makeni.
Addressing the project’s implementation, IECC CEO Mr. Abbas Chabour outlined the commitment his team will uphold in ensuring quality construction.
He expressed enthusiasm for the project, viewing it as an opportunity for his company to showcase expertise and lead the construction sector in Sierra Leone.
Chabour assured that the 64-apartment complex, along with its associated facilities, will be completed within the designated timeframe of 18 months.
“This project represents a significant challenge for IECC,” Chabour stated. “We aim to demonstrate that through collaboration between the private sector and government institutions, we can plan together, work together, deliver together, and succeed together.”
Other notable speakers at the event included Freetown-West Regional Commander AIG Sylvester M.N. Koroma, President of the Police Wives Association Mrs. Matilda Doris Sellu, and Director of Infrastructure AIG Francis Moses Tawah, among community stakeholders.
