The Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq., has pledged stronger government support for security forces during a high-profile visit to Kono district, aimed at addressing concerns over crime, safety, and community protection.
The Minister’s tour began at the Koidu Holdings Concession Area, where he met with police and military officers stationed at the site. He commended their dedication to protecting the company’s assets, but acknowledged the heavy workload caused by limited manpower. Minister Lengor assured them that steps would be taken to provide more personnel and resources to ease operational pressures.
Later, he convened a crucial stakeholder engagement session, bringing together the Council of Paramount Chiefs, the Office of National Security, the Koidu district Council, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Kono City, Civil Society Organizations, and other local authorities.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Lengor called for stronger collaboration between community leaders and law enforcement to combat organized crime and maintain peace.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he emphasized. “We must all work together to protect our people and our district.”
The session concluded with a resolution to form a committee tasked with developing a comprehensive action plan. The plan will set out immediate measures and long-term strategies to tackle the security challenges identified during the meeting and the open town hall discussion that followed.
As part of his itinerary, the Minister visited the Motema and Tankoro Police Divisions, meeting with Local Unit Commanders CSP Augustine Kabia and CSP Augustine Kamara. He praised their professionalism and urged their teams to remain committed despite the daily challenges they face.
His tour also included stops at the Sefadu Correctional Services and the National Fire Force in Koidu City. At both institutions, Minister Lengor encouraged discipline, dedication, and teamwork, noting that their work is vital to maintaining law, order, and public safety.
The visit forms part of a wider national effort to assess security operations in districts across Sierra Leone and to ensure local law enforcement agencies have the tools, manpower, and community support needed to effectively protect lives and property.
