AYV News, July 31, 2025
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has officially welcomed home 158 Formed Police Unit (FPU) officers and 5 Individual Police Officers (IPOs) who recently returned from peacekeeping missions in Somalia and South Sudan under the auspices of the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN), respectively.
The returning officers, who successfully completed their international assignments, were received during a formal ceremony at the Officer’s Mess in Kingtom. The event celebrated their dedication, service, and safe return to continue their duties within the SLP and reunite with their families.
In his welcome address, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, congratulated the personnel for their exemplary service and discipline abroad. He briefed them on key developments that have taken place within the SLP during their absence, notably the ongoing transformation of the organization from a “Force” to a “Service.”
“This transition is aimed at fostering a more community-oriented approach to policing,” the IGP stated. “We are shifting our culture, systems, and service delivery model to focus on our communities. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is playing a leading role in this transformation.”
IGP Sellu also highlighted ongoing partnerships with foreign embassies and international organizations, which are facilitating local and overseas training opportunities for SLP personnel as part of the broader professional development agenda.
He emphasised the value of peacekeeping missions—not only as contributions to global peace and security—but also as avenues for capacity building and international exposure, enriching the professional experience within the SLP.
Addressing a common concern, the IGP reminded returnees of the critical contributions made by colleagues during their absence and cautioned against the tendency by some to disconnect from the institution after peacekeeping service. He encouraged them to remain committed and to strategically position themselves for further growth and opportunities.
“Your experience abroad is an asset. Let it be used to enrich your departments and the institution as a whole,” he advised.
The event concluded with words of appreciation from the returning officers and assurances of their continued dedication to the mission and values of the Sierra Leone Police.
