The Sierra Leone Police (SLP), in partnership with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has launched a two-day training workshop to promote ethical conduct and transparency within law enforcement agencies. The event, themed “Mainstreaming Integrity in the Operations of Law Enforcement Agencies,” is taking place at the Police Wives Association Multi-Purpose Hall in Kingtom.
The workshop brings together officers from the Sierra Leone Police, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), the Motor Drivers Union, and the Bike Riders Union. Its goal is to reinforce professionalism, curb corruption, and restore public trust in law enforcement.
Delivering the keynote address, ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala, Esq. commended the SLP for initiating the training, describing it as a significant step toward institutional reform. “This is a commendable move by the Sierra Leone Police to embrace accountability and promote a culture of integrity,” Kaifala stated.
The ACC Commissioner acknowledged public concerns about corruption within the police force but clarified that the perception does not mean all officers are corrupt. “The high visibility of police officers and their daily interactions with the public often increase scrutiny,” he explained. He encouraged officers to maintain professionalism and ethical standards despite existing systemic challenges.
Commissioner Kaifala also highlighted the need for improved working conditions and better salaries, calling on government and stakeholders to continue efforts in addressing these issues within existing fiscal limitations.
Assistant Inspector General of Police and Director of Training, Andrew Mustapha Kamara, who welcomed participants, emphasized that the training was designed to foster dialogue, not apportion blame. He underscored the importance of constructive engagement to improve the force’s image.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sahr Yomba Senessi officially opened the workshop. He described the initiative as a timely response to public feedback, noting that perception surveys are critical tools for institutional self-reflection.
“This training should serve as a springboard for positive change,” DIG Senessi said, urging participants to fully engage in the sessions and champion the values of accountability and service excellence.
The workshop targets officers from both the Western and Eastern Regions and is expected to strengthen inter-agency collaboration in the ongoing fight against corruption.
