By Staff Writer
FREETOWN, September 29, 2026: The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has graduated 70 personnel of the Freetown City Council Metropolitan Police Force after completing a six-week intensive training programme designed to strengthen professionalism, discipline, and effective service delivery.
The passing-out ceremony, held at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy (SILEA), marked the formal transition of the trainees into service as Metropolitan Police constables.
Delivering the welcome address, the Commandant of SILEA, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Brima Kamara, Esq., outlined the key components of the training programme, which included education, drill and parade, and physical training.
He explained that the educational component focused on professionalism, discipline, human rights and public service responsibilities. According to him, drill and parade sessions were aimed at instilling discipline, teamwork, coordination and proper conduct, while physical training enhanced the strength, fitness and endurance required for effective law enforcement duties.
ACP Kamara noted that trainees underwent both written examinations and practical assessments throughout the six-week period to ensure they acquired the necessary knowledge and operational skills.
The ceremony featured a parade and physical drills by the graduates, who were organized into two platoons. Their performance showcased the discipline, coordination and competence gained during the training.
Delivering the keynote address, Mayor of Freetown Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr underscored the critical role of the Metropolitan Police in supporting security, law enforcement and service delivery across the capital city.
She observed that despite their relatively limited numbers, Metropolitan Police officers are tasked with serving a population of more than two million people, making professionalism, discipline, dedication and respect for citizens indispensable qualities in the execution of their duties.
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Inspector-General of Police William Fayia Sellu for their continued support and collaboration in strengthening the Metropolitan Police Force.
She also commended the management and staff of SILEA for their commitment to training and preparing the officers for public service.
Reflecting on the transformation of the graduates, the Mayor noted that six weeks ago they entered the academy as trainees but had now successfully completed their training and emerged as fully qualified Metropolitan Police constables.
She urged the newly graduated officers to uphold the values instilled during their training and to carry out their responsibilities with professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to the 70 graduates, officially marking the end of their training programme and the beginning of their service within the Freetown City Council Metropolitan Police Force.
The training initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the Sierra Leone Police and its partners to strengthen community policing, improve service delivery and enhance public safety within the municipality.