Freetown, 18th December – The Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, has extended warm Christmas and New Year greetings to officers of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), development partners, and the wider public, while assuring citizens of strengthened security measures during the festive season.
In a statement released from Police Headquarters, Sellu reflected on the challenges and achievements of 2025, noting that despite prevailing security concerns across Sierra Leone and the wider sub-region, the force had remained “resolute in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to protect lives and property, maintain law and order, and uphold the rule of law.”
He commended police personnel nationwide for their “dedication, resilience, and professionalism,” acknowledging the sacrifices made, often at great personal cost. “Your unwavering commitment is deeply appreciated,” he said.
A major highlight of the year, according to the Inspector General, was the continued implementation of the SLP’s transition agenda from a Force to a Service. He described the reform as a cornerstone of people-centred policing, emphasizing professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights, and stronger community partnerships.
Sellu pointed to notable institutional gains in 2025, including capacity-building initiatives, improvements in personnel welfare, expansion of specialized units, enhanced training programmes, infrastructural development, and the integration of technology to support modern policing. He credited these achievements to the support of the Government of Sierra Leone, international partners, and cooperation from the public.
Looking ahead to the festive season, the Inspector General assured citizens that “comprehensive security measures have been put in place to ensure a peaceful, safe and secured celebration.” He confirmed that officers will remain deployed nationwide to provide visible policing, traffic management, and rapid response services.
He urged the public to celebrate responsibly and cooperate fully with law enforcement. “I call on all citizens to continue supporting the Sierra Leone Police by remaining law-abiding, vigilant, and proactive in sharing information that promotes public safety. Policing is a shared responsibility, and together, we can build a safer and more prosperous Sierra Leone,” Sellu stated.
Turning to 2026, the Inspector General pledged to consolidate gains made in 2025 while addressing emerging security threats. He outlined priorities including deepening community engagement, strengthening professionalism and discipline, and leveraging innovation to meet contemporary challenges.
Sellu expressed appreciation to President Julius Maada Bio, the Government of Sierra Leone, sister security agencies, development partners, the media, and the general public for their continued support.
“I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year,” he concluded. “May 2026 bring renewed hope, peace, unity, and progress for the Sierra Leone Police and our beloved nation. God bless you all.”
