AYV News, March 6, 2025
Her Excellency Josephine Gauld, the British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, visited the Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, at the Police Headquarters on George Street, Freetown. The purpose of the visit was to reinforce diplomatic relations and enhance cooperation between the British High Commission and the Sierra Leone Police.
During their meeting, Her Excellency Gauld sought to better understand the operations of the Sierra Leone Police as well as the challenges it faces. Key issues discussed included the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media, drug-related problems, public order management, and election security. The conversation also emphasized ongoing collaboration among various security sectors.
Inspector General Fayia Sellu highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing these significant challenges. He expressed concern about how misinformation and disinformation on social media threaten public order, while praising the effectiveness of coordinated efforts among security agencies to debunk false claims and prevent civil unrest.
Regarding drug-related issues, the IGP noted the SLP collaborative efforts with partners to combat drug trafficking. He cited the successful discovery and destruction of local drug laboratories, which has contributed to a notable reduction in the problem.
On public order management, Fayia Sellu mentioned that the British Peace Support Team, based in Nairobi, Kenya, recently provided valuable training for Sierra Leone Police personnel on public order tactics. He acknowledged the ongoing support from the British government, especially following the restructuring of the Sierra Leone Police, which has helped address training gaps and equip the force to face emerging challenges.
The IGP also discussed the organizational structure of the police force, which consists of six administrative regions and thirty- eight (38) local police divisions across the country. He stressed the importance of community engagement, stating that Local Unit Commanders (LUCs) are instructed to prioritize interactions with the community daily. This strategy ensures that police personnel remain accountable and effective, despite challenges posed by the officer-to-civilian ratio.
In relation to electoral matters, the IGP explained that a regulatory body oversees political party activities, establishing a timeline for election-related events. The police are tasked with providing security at these events to guarantee peaceful elections.
Her Excellency Gauld expressed her appreciation for the dedication of the Sierra Leone Police to maintaining peace and stability in the country. She assured the Inspector General that the British High Commission would continue its support, including specialist training opportunities in the UK.
The meeting concluded with a group photo of Her Excellency Josephine Gauld and Inspector General Fayia Sellu, symbolizing the strengthened ties between the British High Commission and the Sierra Leone Police.
