By: Benedict AbuBakarr Conteh
A nine-member delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by Brigadier General Mactar Diop, Chief of Staff of ECOWAS, held a critical meeting today with Sierra Leone’s Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, at his office in Freetown.
The visit, according to Brigadier General Diop, was aimed at evaluating the administrative and logistical needs for an upcoming mission, as well as addressing security concerns following the attempted coup on November 26, 2023.
During the meeting, IGP Sellu outlined the significant challenges faced by the police force, including the August 10, 2022 insurrection and the more recent coup attempt. Despite these hurdles, he emphasized the successful management of the June 2023 elections and ongoing efforts to tackle issues such as cybercrime, illegal mining, and drug trafficking.
Sellu also raised concerns about the country's porous borders but reassured the delegation of the police force’s cooperation with the military and international partners, including Guinean security officers, to strengthen border security.
In terms of drug enforcement, Sellu highlighted ongoing collaborations with SeaCorp and the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) to combat drug trafficking.
He concluded by assuring the ECOWAS delegation that, despite the challenges, Sierra Leone remains relatively calm, with normal activities continuing without significant disruption.
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