Freetown, 23rd October, 2026 – The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has tested its newly acquired tear-gas drone designed to support crowd management and public-order operations, stressing that public safety and human rights will remain paramount in its use.
The test exercise was conducted at several locations across Freetown by the Head of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Department, ASP David A. Mbayo, and members of the Police Drone Team at Police Headquarters. The tear-gas drone, which can disperse tear gas from the air, was tested to assess its functionality, operational readiness and potential deployment in managing riots, unlawful assemblies and other public-order situations without putting officers and civilians in confrontation.
Police said the initiative is part of a broader modernisation drive by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu to enhance operational effectiveness through the responsible use of technology. The SLP was quick to emphasize that strict legal safeguards and operational procedures will govern deployment of the drone.
ASP Mbayo stressed that any use of the equipment must comply with the law, with proper training, effective supervision and clear safeguards to minimise harm. He underscored the need to prevent indiscriminate exposure to tear gas, especially among vulnerable persons including children, the elderly and people with health conditions, noting that the safety and rights of the public must be protected at all times.
“The use of technology in policing must remain consistent with the principles of accountability, professionalism and respect for human rights,” ASP Mbayo said. The Police reiterated that the preservation of life, protection of human rights and safety of the public will remain central to all operations, adding that it remains committed to people-centred, technology-driven policing where operational effectiveness goes hand-in-hand with accountability.
