By Sulaiman Aruna Sesay
Sierra Leone, like many developing countries, has been grappling with the challenges associated with a poorly resourced and ill-equipped police force. One of the most critical challenges is the issue of police extortion, where police officers often exploit drivers and other vulnerable citizens for personal gain.
In recent years, the Sierra Leone police force has come under intense criticism for its widespread practice of extorting drivers. Some law enforcement officers have been accused of stopping vehicles arbitrarily, demanding bribes, and threatening drivers with arrest or other forms of harassment if they do not comply.
These incidents have become so brazen that some drivers have become hesitant to travel on some of the major highways where the police have gained notoriety for their acts of extortion.
The problem of police extortion does not just affect drivers. It also affects other vulnerable citizens, such as petty traders, market stallholders, and ordinary people going about their daily lives. When police officers extort money from these vulnerable groups, they contribute to the already existing poverty levels, making it difficult for people to live decent lives.
For instance, if a police officer stops a trader on the way to a market, the trader loses valuable time and risks losing business. If the trader is forced to pay a bribe to the police officer, they may be left without enough money to purchase essential goods at the market. The results can be disastrous for individuals and local communities who are already struggling to get by.
To combat the problem, the Sierra Leone Police force must take a more active role in addressing the root causes of police extortion. A multi-faceted approach is needed, including improving police equipment, training, and working conditions, as well as introducing new rules and guidelines to ensure accountability and transparency in all police affairs.
Another main issue that creates problems with police extortion is the pervasive culture of corruption. The Sierra Leone police force, like many other public institutions, suffers from endemic corruption and a lack of accountability. Without greater efforts to address these issues, the police force will continue to exploit vulnerable citizens with impunity.
Police extortion is a significant problem for Sierra Leone, and one that is negatively impacting the country’s image and its efforts to progress. The government, civil society organizations, and international support partners must work together to help the police address these issues and change the culture of corruption that exists within the police force. By doing so, they can restore confidence in law enforcement and build a better future for all Sierra Leoneans.
