By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a landmark step towards reinforcing national security collaboration, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, Lieutenant-General Amara Idara Bangura, has paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess in Kingtom Police Barracks.
Lieutenant-General Bangura was accompanied by a delegation of newly promoted senior military officers. The visit, described by IGP Sellu as “historic and symbolic,” aimed to deepen inter-agency cooperation, foster institutional harmony, and enhance the operational synergy between the military and the police forces.
During his welcome remarks, IGP Sellu congratulated the newly elevated military officers and acknowledged the significance of the gesture. He emphasized that national security is a shared responsibility that thrives on strong partnerships between institutions.
“Security cannot be delivered in isolation,” said IGP Sellu. “One agency’s strength complements the other’s weakness. That is why our collaboration must remain a cornerstone of peace and development.”
He highlighted the ongoing Police-Military Cooperation (POMIC) training programme as a practical example of efforts to strengthen joint operations across the country. The IGP also proposed the creation of joint social activities to build camaraderie and trust between personnel of both forces.
Lieutenant-General Bangura, in his response, echoed the IGP’s sentiments and affirmed that effective coordination between the police and the military is essential to maintaining national peace and stability.
“Just like two hands clapping, our collaboration is vital,” he said. “No single institution can secure the country alone. It is only through unity and cooperation that we can succeed.”
The Chief of Defence Staff noted that the visit was not only symbolic but also strategic. He referenced several successful initiatives that have been the result of joint police-military efforts, including the deployment of motorbikes to enhance patrol capabilities at border crossing points.
He also acknowledged the public’s increasing confidence in the country’s security apparatus, particularly when both the police and military present a united front. According to him, this visible cooperation reassures citizens and deters criminal activity.
Lieutenant General Bangura further revealed that President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has consistently praised the growing synergy between the police and the military. He said the president considers it an unprecedented achievement and has called for the collaboration to be institutionalised at both national and regional levels.
“We must take this cooperation beyond Freetown,” the CDS urged. “Let us ensure that at every regional command, police and military leaders work together to uphold law and order.”
The visit culminated in a joint agreement to establish a technical cooperation team. This team will be tasked with developing social and professional engagement initiatives designed to strengthen interpersonal and institutional ties between the forces.
The initiative will include shared training programmes, sports competitions, and public outreach events aimed at demonstrating unity and building public trust. Both leaders affirmed that these activities will also help address misunderstandings that sometimes arise in the line of duty.
IGP Sellu and Lieutenant-General Bangura reiterated their commitment to working hand in hand to safeguard Sierra Leone’s security. They both acknowledged that the future of national peace rests on a strong, coordinated, and responsive security sector.
“This is the beginning of a deeper, more structured relationship,” said IGP Sellu. “We have set a tone that future leadership can build on.”
Lieutenant General Bangura agreed, calling the meeting a reaffirmation of shared goals and mutual respect between the two institutions. “Today is not just about courtesy; it is about commitment—to each other and to the people of Sierra Leone.”
As the country continues to navigate complex security challenges, this renewed alliance between the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces and the Sierra Leone Police stands as a testament to the power of cooperation in ensuring lasting peace and safety for all citizens.
