By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) Southern Region on Friday held a colorful and well-coordinated uniform parade involving officers from the East, West, and Regional Divisions. The event was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen discipline, professionalism, and effective service delivery within the Force.
The parade, which drew commanders from all divisions in the region, provided an opportunity for senior officers to address personnel on key issues relating to policing standards, public service, and regional security priorities.
Speaking at the parade, the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) South, Andrew Mustapha Kamara, expressed profound appreciation to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for his continuous support and leadership in transforming the institution.
AIG Kamara reminded officers that the Sierra Leone Police, historically known as a “Force for Good,” has now evolved into the Sierra Leone Police Service—a transition that emphasizes service-oriented policing and stronger engagement with communities.
He emphasized that policing is no longer solely about the use of force but about building trust, cooperation, and mutual respect between the police and the public. Officers were urged to maintain positive relationships with community members in the performance of their duties.
The Regional Police Commander also highlighted that the newly introduced uniform is designated for use on Mondays and Fridays. He urged officers to take proper care of it, noting that their appearance reflects the integrity and image of the institution.
AIG Kamara further reminded personnel that as service officers, they are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, commitment, love for the job, and respect for constituted authority. He underscored that their primary responsibility at all times is the protection of lives and property.
On security matters, the AIG issued a strong directive that the use of armed rubber is strictly prohibited in the Southern Region. Officers were instructed to remain vigilant at their duty posts and ensure thorough monitoring of all vehicles and passengers at checkpoints to prevent criminal activity.
He also made it unequivocally clear that the use, possession, and transportation of drugs in the region is strictly prohibited and called on officers to enforce the law without fear or favor.
The uniform parade concluded with a renewed commitment from officers to uphold professionalism, discipline, and community-focused policing, in line with the vision of the Sierra Leone Police Service.