01/06/2026
KAMAKWIE POLICE DIVISION EXTENDS COMMUNITY POLICING SENSITIZATION TO GBANTI CHIEFDOM
Gbanti Chiefdom, Karene District – June 1, 2026
As part of ongoing efforts to promote community-oriented policing and strengthen public trust in law enforcement, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Kamakwie Police Division, Superintendent John S. Koroma, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, led a sensitization outreach to Makonray Village in Gbanti Chiefdom.
The engagement formed part of the Sierra Leone Police's transformation agenda from a force-based institution to a service-oriented organization, aimed at fostering stronger partnerships between the police and local communities in maintaining peace and security.
Addressing local authorities, community stakeholders, and youth representatives, Superintendent Koroma emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police and residents in safeguarding their communities. He educated participants on their roles and responsibilities, particularly in situations where police presence may be limited, and encouraged them to report security concerns through timely and reliable information sharing.
The Police Commander also called for greater community participation in the delivery of quality policing services through dialogue, consultation, and active involvement in security matters affecting the chiefdom.
The meeting attracted representatives from all ten sections of Gbanti Chiefdom, including senior stakeholders and youth leaders, demonstrating their commitment to supporting community-oriented policing initiatives and contributing to the safety of their communities.
Superintendent Koroma further advocated for the establishment of a Local Policing Partnership Board (LPPB), describing it as a vital mechanism for enhancing community participation in policing, promoting trust and confidence, and supporting informal conflict resolution within communities.
He noted that the success of community policing depends largely on the willingness of residents to work closely with law enforcement agencies and provide information that can help prevent crime and maintain public order.
Referencing the mission statement of the Sierra Leone Police, Superintendent Koroma stressed the importance of valuing people and respecting local needs as essential elements in building public confidence and strengthening police-community relations.
Responding on behalf of the people of Gbanti Chiefdom, Paramount Chief Honourable Alhaji Kandeh Paria II expressed appreciation to Superintendent Koroma and his team for extending the outreach programme to the chiefdom. He also highlighted several challenges facing the community, particularly the absence of a nearby police facility.
The Paramount Chief disclosed that the chiefdom has identified a parcel of land for the construction of a police post and appealed to the Sierra Leone Police for support in establishing the facility, citing the considerable distance residents currently travel to access police services at Kamaranka Chiefdom.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing optimism about the future of community policing in Gbanti Chiefdom and reaffirming their commitment to supporting security efforts through effective and timely information sharing.
SLP Media Team
