By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu- Bo City
The vibrant city of Bo is currently grappling with an alarming surge in armed robbery, sparking widespread concern among its residents. As the threat of crime looms larger, the police, led by Regional Commander South, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Brima Kanneh, are taking proactive steps to restore safety and security to the community.
In a bid to curb the growing menace, AIG Kanneh has collaborated with the Local Unit Commanders (LUC) of Bo West Police Station, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Alphonso Abdulai Fambulleh, and Bo East Police Station, CSP Sia Bernadette Sandy, to call for the reactivation of the Community Safety Volunteers (CSV) program. This initiative, which once played a pivotal role in crime prevention but has waned in recent years, is now seen as a crucial component in the fight against armed robbery in Bo.
AIG Kanneh emphasized the importance of community involvement in bolstering the efforts of the police force. “Safety is a collective responsibility,” he stated. “While the police work diligently to protect our city, we cannot be everywhere at once. The CSV program allows us to extend our reach, with community members acting as our eyes and ears on the ground.”
The CSV program, when fully operational, involves trained volunteers patrolling neighbourhoods, reporting suspicious activities, and providing critical support to the police. This collaboration between law enforcement and the community has the potential to significantly reduce the frequency of armed robberies and other crimes across Bo City.
In addition to enhancing security, the CSV program also serves as a vital communication bridge between the police and the public. Volunteers relay important information and community concerns to the police, facilitating a deeper understanding of the specific challenges facing each neighbourhood. This open channel of communication enables the police to tailor their crime prevention strategies more effectively, addressing the unique needs of the community.
Moreover, the reactivation of the CSV program fosters a sense of unity and shared responsibility among Bo’s residents. As neighbours come together with the common goal of safeguarding their communities, the bonds within these neighbourhoods are strengthened, creating a more resilient and cohesive city.
For individuals, volunteering as a CSV offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the well-being of their community while acquiring valuable skills and training. It also provides a meaningful way to give back to the city and play an active role in making a positive impact.
The call to reactivate the CSV program is more than just a plea for assistance; it is a rallying cry for collective action and community solidarity. By working hand in hand with the police, the residents of Bo can take a stand against crime and make their city a safer place for everyone.
As Bo faces the challenges of rising crime, it is imperative that its citizens heed AIG Kanneh’s call to action. Together, through the reactivation of the Community Safety Volunteers program, we can reclaim our neighbourhoods, reduce crime, and ensure that Bo remains a safe and welcoming city for all.
