By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has received a significant boost in its media and public relations operations following the donation of modern equipment from the Chinese Embassy in Freetown. The support, which includes high-end cameras, computers, and accessories, is aimed at enhancing the efficiency and digital capacity of the SLP Media and Public Relations Department.
The donation was officially handed over during a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, by a high-level delegation from the Chinese Embassy led by Minister Counsellor Mr. Zhang Diabin. The initiative marks another milestone in the growing partnership between the Republic of Sierra Leone and the People’s Republic of China.
Mr. Zhang Diabin, speaking during the presentation, reiterated that the equipment donation is part of a long-standing commitment by the Chinese Government to assist Sierra Leone in strengthening its institutional capabilities, particularly in the area of public security. noting that the advanced tools would significantly improve the media department’s output, helping the police engage more effectively with the public.
“The computers and accompanying gadgets will greatly improve the efficiency and output of your media department,” Mr. Diabin emphasized. “Furthermore, plans are underway to send 20 SLP officials to one of our prestigious institutions in China for specialized training in communication and media operations.”
In response, IGP William Fayia Sellu expressed deep appreciation for the continued support from the Chinese government, describing the gesture as timely and impactful. He recalled his own experience in a training program in China back in 2013, noting how such international exposure contributes to personal and institutional development.
“This support is not only practical but strategic,” IGP Sellu said. “It directly strengthens our media capabilities and helps us share our progress, challenges, and commitment to national security more transparently with the public.”
IGP Sellu also updated the Chinese delegation on recent developments within the Sierra Leone Police, particularly around crime prevention and surveillance technology. He highlighted the ongoing installation of CCTV cameras in key locations across Freetown and Bo, and shared plans to expand the system to Makeni, Kenema, and Port Loko. Such efforts, he said, align with President Julius Maada Bio’s “Safe Salone” programme and his broader “Big Five Game Changers” agenda.
“The extension of our CCTV coverage is a priority for us,” the IGP noted. “We are working to make our towns safer and more secure, using both manpower and modern technology.”
The visit concluded with a formal invitation from the Chinese Embassy for the Inspector General to attend China’s upcoming National Day celebration later this year—a sign of the warm and collaborative relationship between both nations.
The donation has been widely welcomed by the public and stakeholders as a meaningful step towards improved police-public relations, transparency, and operational efficiency. Many citizens have commended IGP Sellu’s leadership, describing the development as a clear example of responsive governance and proactive international cooperation.
