By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a decisive move to strengthen accountability and discipline within the force, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has dismissed Sergeant Musa Sidikie Swarbay after a disciplinary hearing found him guilty of multiple offences, including the unlawful possession of illegal drugs.
Sergeant Swarbay, who was attached to the Mile 91 Division in the Tonkolili District, appeared before a disciplinary court on several charges relating to gross misconduct, breach of duty, and violation of police ethics. The panel, after carefully reviewing the evidence presented, upheld four serious charges against him, including “Improper Practice” for the possession of illicit drugs, disobedience of lawful orders from the Inspector General of Police, and conduct deemed “prejudicial to good order and discipline.”
According to police sources, the internal hearing followed due process, giving the officer the opportunity to defend himself against the charges. However, the panel concluded that the evidence was overwhelming and that his actions constituted a clear breach of the Police Code of Conduct and the integrity expected of an officer of the law.
Following the court’s ruling, a senior police officer reviewed and approved the decision, ordering Sergeant Swarbay’s immediate dismissal from the force. The directive, which takes effect immediately, reflects the institution’s firm stance against corruption, drug-related offences, and misconduct within its ranks.
An official statement from the Sierra Leone Police emphasized that the disciplinary action serves as a strong warning to other personnel who may be tempted to engage in unethical behavior. The statement reaffirmed the Inspector General’s commitment to maintaining a disciplined, professional, and accountable police service that commands public confidence and respect.
“The Sierra Leone Police remains committed to upholding the highest standards of discipline and integrity,” the statement read. “Any officer found guilty of conduct that undermines the credibility of the force or violates the law will face the full consequences of their actions.”
As part of the enforcement of the dismissal, the administrative officer at the Mile 91 Division has been directed to ensure that all government-issued property, including Swarbay’s police identification card, uniform, and badges, are retrieved immediately. The Human Resources Department at Police Headquarters in Freetown has also been instructed to complete all necessary termination processes and update official records accordingly.
The decision has been widely viewed as a reflection of the police leadership’s ongoing commitment to reform and internal accountability. It aligns with the broader efforts by the Inspector General of Police to restore discipline and rebuild public trust in the force, particularly at a time when public scrutiny of law enforcement remains high.
Community leaders in the area welcomed the action, describing it as a necessary step toward cleansing the institution of corrupt practices and ensuring that officers serve as examples of integrity.
The dismissal of Sergeant Swarbay marks another instance of the SLP’s determination to rid the force of indiscipline and uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and justice. Police authorities have reiterated their commitment to continue investigating and taking appropriate action against any officer found wanting, as part of their mission to serve and protect the people of Sierra Leone with honesty and dedication.
