Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu has commissioned a state-of-the-art Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) Forensic Laboratory at Hastings, marking a major milestone in strengthening scientific investigations into transnational organized crime, particularly illicit drug trafficking at Hastings on Thursday 2 July 2026.
The newly commissioned facility provides a modern and conducive working environment for the Police Forensic Laboratory while housing key administrative offices. It is expected to enhance the Sierra Leone Police’s capacity to conduct evidence-based investigations and improve the quality of criminal justice outcomes with scientific evidence.
Delivering the keynote address, IGP Sellu described commissioning as a significant step towards strengthening the Force’s forensic capabilities and improving the successful prosecution of criminal cases through credible scientific evidence.
He emphasized that forensic evidence remains one of the most reliable forms of evidence presented before the courts and commended Forensic Analyst ASP Steven for his professionalism, technical expertise, and dedication to advancing forensic investigations within the Sierra Leone Police.
The Inspector General disclosed that the forensic laboratory had been relocated from Connaught Hospital to Hastings to ensure that the Sierra Leone Police maintain full operational control over its forensic equipment and services.
He also directed that officers previously trained in forensic investigations be identified and redeployed to reactivate the dormant forensic laboratory at Police Headquarters, Kingtom.
Highlighting his vision for institutional transformation, IGP Sellu encouraged police officers to pursue specialized career paths, develop professional expertise in their respective fields, and place institutional development above personal interests.
He noted that the establishment of the TOCU Forensic Laboratory forms part of broader reforms aimed at addressing longstanding institutional gaps through improved infrastructure, specialized training, and the acquisition of modern policing equipment.
Reflecting on achievements recorded under his leadership, the IGP cited the construction of the Police Mortuary, the completion of the Aberdeen Police Station, the Ross Road Regional Police Headquarters, and the Matru Jong Police Station. He also highlighted the extensive rehabilitation and expansion of Police Headquarters and the transformation of the Police Hospital with support from international development partners.
IGP Sellu urged personnel of the Transnational Organized Crime Unit to make effective use of the new laboratory, expressing confidence that the enhanced forensic capacity would contribute significantly to stronger criminal investigations and higher conviction rates.
He further acknowledged the support of partner institutions, particularly through the National Taskforce, whose collaborative efforts have strengthened Sierra Leone’s fight against narcotics-related offences.
Reaffirming his commitment to the continued growth of the laboratory, the Inspector General assured officers that the necessary resources would be provided to further strengthen its operations. He expressed confidence that professionalism, dedication, and teamwork would continue to transform the Sierra Leone Police into a more effective and trusted law enforcement institution.
Speaking at the ceremony, Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Chief Andrew Jaiah Kaikai, described commissioning as a strategic investment in strengthening Sierra Leone’s response to transnational organized crime and illicit drug trafficking. He said the facility demonstrates the Government’s commitment to building resilient security institutions capable of responding to evolving criminal threats.
Chief Kaikai commended IGP Sellu for what he described as the remarkable transformation and professionalism demonstrated by the Sierra Leone Police since 2023. He praised the Inspector General’s hands-on leadership and unwavering commitment to institutional development.
Representing the Director of Crime Services, Head of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), ACP Alieu Jalloh, underscored the importance of scientific evidence in modern policing. He noted that forensic analysis often provides more objective and reliable evidence than eyewitness testimony and expressed confidence that the new laboratory would significantly strengthen criminal investigations and improve overall service delivery.
ACP Jalloh also thanked the Inspector General for his sustained support in strengthening the Criminal Investigation Department through infrastructure development, specialized training, and capacity-building initiatives.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by members of the Sierra Leone Police Executive Management Board, representatives of the Office of National Security, officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and other stakeholders from the security sector.
Speakers at the event unanimously stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in combating transnational organized crime, tackling illicit drug trafficking, and safeguarding Sierra Leone’s national security.