By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The newly transferred Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police, East, Francis Meinday, has reaffirmed the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with local authorities in the Eastern Region. On Thursday, 18th September 2025, he paid a courtesy visit to the Mayor of Kenema City, His Worship Thomas Baio, at the Kenema City Council.
The meeting, attended by senior police officers and council officials, underscored the importance of building stronger ties between law enforcement and civic leadership to address crime and maintain public order.
In his remarks, AIG Meinday said his administration would prioritize proactive policing, community partnerships, and restoring public confidence in the Sierra Leone Police. He pledged to work closely with local authorities in ensuring the safety of Kenema residents and tackling rising crime rates in the region.
“As the AIG, I am here not only to lead the police but also to partner with the city council and the people of Kenema in fostering peace and development,” he stated. He emphasized that effective policing depends on mutual trust, information sharing, and cooperation from the community.
AIG Meinday stressed that his vision for policing in the East would be centered on community engagement and crime prevention rather than reactive measures. He assured residents that the police under his command would not relent in addressing issues of lawlessness, violence, and organized crime.
Welcoming the AIG, Mayor Thomas Baio described the visit as a milestone in strengthening ties between the police and the city council. He explained that Kenema, as a growing commercial and administrative hub, continues to attract people from different districts, a situation that often gives rise to challenges such as petty theft, violent crime, and other social problems.
According to the Mayor, tackling these challenges requires stronger collaboration between the council, the police, and the public. He commended AIG Meinday for taking the initiative to meet with city authorities soon after his transfer.
“The growth and safety of our city depend on the level of collaboration we build with state security agencies,” Mayor Baio said. “We stand ready to support initiatives that will make Kenema a safer and more peaceful city.”
He urged residents to see the police as partners in development and peace building rather than viewing them solely as law enforcers. Mayor Baio also called for enhanced public cooperation, particularly in sharing information that would help the police address criminal activity effectively.
Both leaders concluded the meeting by highlighting key areas of collaboration, including public sensitization campaigns, youth engagement, and joint community patrols. They expressed optimism that these measures would not only improve security in Kenema but also foster sustainable growth and development.
AIG Meinday also disclosed that since his assumption of office, he has held several meetings with different stakeholders in Kenema to familiarize himself with ongoing issues and to strengthen security coordination across the city.
Observers believe that his proactive approach and emphasis on partnership could mark a turning point in addressing security challenges in the Eastern Region. The renewed collaboration between the Sierra Leone Police and the Kenema City Council is expected to lay a strong foundation for peace, order, and prosperity in the city.
