By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, has commended officers of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) for their dedication, resilience and professionalism throughout 2025, while assuring citizens and residents of comprehensive security measures ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities.
In his Christmas and New Year message addressed to police officers, development partners, stakeholders and the general public, IGP William Fayia Sellu described 2025 as a year marked by both challenges and notable achievements for the Sierra Leone Police. He noted that despite prevailing security concerns within the country and across the wider sub-region, the SLP remained steadfast in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to protect lives and property, maintain law and order, and uphold the rule of law.
According to the IGP, the police institution sustained relative peace and stability nationwide through proactive policing strategies, intelligence-led operations and strengthened inter-agency collaboration. He explained that those approaches have enhanced the SLP’s ability to anticipate, prevent and respond effectively to security threats, thereby reinforcing public confidence in law enforcement.
IGP William Fayia Sellu paid glowing tribute to police personnel across all ranks, acknowledging their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to duty. He said the professionalism and resilience displayed by officers, often at great personal cost, have been instrumental in maintaining public safety and national stability.
“I commend all police personnel for their dedication, resilience and professionalism throughout the year. Your sacrifices and unwavering commitment are deeply appreciated,” the IGP stated.
One of the most significant milestones highlighted in the message was the continued implementation of the Sierra Leone Police transition agenda from a “Force” to a “Service.” IGP William Fayia Sellu described the reform as a cornerstone of modern policing in Sierra Leone, underscoring the institution’s commitment to people-centred policing, accountability, professionalism, respect for human rights and stronger community partnerships.
He disclosed that during the year under review, the Sierra Leone Police recorded several institutional and developmental achievements. These include capacity-building initiatives, improvements in personnel welfare, the expansion of specialized units, enhanced training programmes, infrastructural development and the integration of modern technology to support effective and efficient policing. The IGP attributed those achievements to the continued support of the Government of Sierra Leone, international partners and the cooperation of the general public.
As the country approaches the festive season, IGP William Fayia Sellu assured citizens that comprehensive security measures have been put in place nationwide to ensure a peaceful, safe, and secure Christmas and New Year celebration. He said police officers will remain visibly deployed across the country to provide effective patrols, manage traffic flow and ensure rapid response to incidents.
“Officers will remain deployed nationwide to provide visible policing, traffic management and rapid response services. I urge the public to celebrate responsibly, adhere to the law and cooperate fully with law enforcement personnel,” he appealed.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Inspector General expressed optimism and resolve, noting that the Sierra Leone Police will consolidate the gains already achieved while addressing emerging and evolving security threats. He said the institution remains committed to further improving service delivery and strengthening internal systems to meet contemporary security challenges.
The IGP outlined key priorities for the coming year, including deepening community engagement, strengthening discipline and professionalism within the force, and leveraging innovation and modern policing strategies. He stressed that those priorities are essential to supporting national peace, democratic governance and sustainable development.
He further called on citizens to continue supporting the Sierra Leone Police by remaining law-abiding, vigilant and proactive in sharing information that promotes public safety. According to him, effective policing thrives on trust and cooperation between the police and the communities they serve.
“Policing is a shared responsibility and together we can build a safer and more peaceful Sierra Leone,” the IGP emphasized.
On behalf of the Sierra Leone Police, IGP William Fayia Sellu expressed sincere appreciation to His Excellency the President, the Government of Sierra Leone, development partners, sister security agencies, the media and the general public for their continued support and cooperation throughout the year.
He concluded by wishing all Sierra Leoneans a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year, expressing hope that 2026 will bring renewed peace, unity and progress for the Sierra Leone Police and the nation at large.
