By: Andrew Chokpeleh

Freetown, 20th January 2026- The Sierra Leone Police has held an interfaith memorial service at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy in Hastings to honour and remember police officers who lost their lives during the country’s civil war. The service was also dedicated to recognising the selfless sacrifices made by security personnel who died in the line of duty while protecting peace and defending the Constitution of Sierra Leone.

Delivering a tribute, Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu described the loss of fellow officers as deeply painful, especially when it occurs during the execution of official duties. He also referenced the recent deaths of police officers in a tragic road accident.
The IGP noted that death is inevitable but urged officers to always pray before leaving their homes, stressing that policing is a demanding and high-risk profession that requires spiritual preparedness. “Moments like this remind us of the selfless and sacrificial services rendered by our fallen colleagues,” he said, encouraging officers to remain steadfast and committed in the discharge of their duties.

IGP Sellu concluded by praying for the souls of the departed officers to continue to rest in peace.

The Director of Operations of the Sierra Leone Police, Assistant Inspector General John Martin Senessie, also paid tribute to the bravery, dedication, and selflessness of officers who paid the ultimate price for the peace the country enjoys today. He admonished serving officers to emulate the sacrifices of their fallen colleagues and reminded them of the oath they took to protect lives and property.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, commended the courage of police officers who died during the war, noting that while many civilians fled to safety, the police advanced into areas where fighting was most intense. He acknowledged the unwavering commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to national security and thanked IGP Sellu for organising the interfaith service to honour their fallen colleagues.

The Minister added that officers who died during the war would remain honoured members of the national family and assured that the government would continue to remember and celebrate their sacrifices.

The memorial service ended with the laying of wreaths in honour of the police officers who lost their lives during the civil war.