By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a strategic move to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of traffic management across Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), with support from the Government of Sierra Leone, successfully conducted a two-day intensive training program for officers within the Traffic Division of the force.
The training took place on Thursday and Friday, August 14–15, 2025, at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess in Kingtom, Freetown. It brought together both senior and junior traffic officers from across the country.
Speaking at the event, Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu described the training as a strategic intervention aimed at equipping the SLP’s Traffic Division with specialized knowledge and skills in modern traffic management.
“Improving road safety measures, curbing irresponsible driving, and enforcing traffic laws requires updated knowledge and expertise,” said IGP Sellu. “Capacitating personnel to manage traffic congestion, clamp down on lawless drivers, and enhance road safety is a top priority for effective policing.”
He emphasized the importance of professionalism among traffic officers, noting that the public continues to lodge numerous complaints about misconduct within the traffic unit. He warned officers against unethical practices, especially soliciting or accepting bribes, calling such acts serious offences that will be dealt with firmly.
The training, he said, focused on modern approaches to traffic control, accident prevention, and the use of new road sign technologies. IGP Sellu added that this initiative is part of broader efforts to transform the SLP from a “force” to a “service”, reflecting a more citizen-centered policing model.
Also addressing the officers, Commissioner of Police Abdul Moijueh, Director of Traffic Management and Road Safety, urged participants to take the training seriously and apply the knowledge acquired in their daily operations.
“With these modules, you’re now in a better position to transform the traffic division into a more professional and respected arm of the police,” said Commissioner Moijueh. “This training provides not just skills but advanced, practical knowledge in traffic enforcement.”
He echoed the Inspector General’s warning, encouraging officers to focus on public service rather than personal gain.
“Placing money before your job undermines everything we are building. You’re the first line of contact with the public set the right example,” he warned.
Officers who participated in the training expressed their appreciation and renewed commitment to professionalism. They pledged to use the knowledge gained to improve road safety, reduce traffic-related incidents, and restore public trust in the Traffic Division.
They also praised the police leadership for prioritizing capacity-building and emphasized that the skills gained will serve them throughout their careers.