By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu-Bo City
Friday, 9th August 2024: A joint border security meeting took place at the Mano River Division conference room in Jendema, Sorogbeima Chiefdom, Pujehun District. Organized by the Provincial Security Committee (PROSEC), the meeting was chaired by the Resident Minister South, Mr. Mohamed E.K. Allie, and brought together key security stakeholders from Bo, Pujehun, and neighboring Liberia. The event commenced with a warm welcome from the Paramount Chief of Sorogbeima Chiefdom, setting the stage for crucial discussions.
The meeting’s primary agenda centered around pressing security concerns, including the ongoing search for Mohamed Koroma, a 40-year-old resident of Fairo Town who has been missing since Saturday, 27th July 2024. Additionally, the committee tackled the growing issue of illegal substances within the region, specifically the proliferation of Kush, marijuana, and Tramadol.
In his address, Resident Minister Allie expressed grave concern over the missing resident, urging the community to assist the police by providing any information that could help locate Mr. Koroma. He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in resolving such critical matters.
Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Mr. Brima Kanneh, the Regional Police Commander South, acknowledged the support of Sorogbeima Chiefdom residents in combating the local drug crisis. AIG Kanneh, deeply affected by the case of the missing resident, stressed that successful investigations rely heavily on the community’s active participation. He also highlighted the significant strides made by law enforcement in curbing the spread of illegal drugs, particularly Kush, and assured that all seven Police Divisions remain vigilant in their ongoing operations.
Chief Superintendent of Police Mr. Phillip A. Kpange, the Local Unit Commander of the Mano River Division, deemed the meeting both timely and critical. He revealed that the division oversees approximately 40 border crossing points, though only a few are currently manned by police and military forces due to manpower limitations. He further underscored the logistical challenges, particularly the lack of adequate mobility, which hampers the ability to reach certain remote communities.
Community members in attendance expressed their appreciation for the security measures in place and reassured AIG Kanneh of their unwavering support. AIG Kanneh was lauded for his effective leadership, which has significantly bolstered community policing efforts, fostering an environment of collaboration aimed at maintaining peace and security.
The meeting concluded with a visit to Liberia’s immigration and customs facilities. The tour aimed to strengthen cross-border security collaboration between Sierra Leone and Liberia, reinforcing the commitment to regional safety and cooperation.
