Seventy newly recruited Freetown Metropolitan Police officers have completed six weeks of intensive training, with Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr urging them to wear their uniforms as a symbol of public service rather than an opportunity to abuse authority. The officers officially passed out on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, during a ceremony held at the Police Training Academy grounds in Hastings. This event marked the successful completion of their training.
The ceremony was attended by Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Deputy Mayor Kweku Lisk Esq., councillors and staff of the Freetown City Council (FCC), senior police officials, Western Area Rural District Council Chairman Kasho Holland-Cole, and family members of the graduating officers. The occasion featured a colourful parade, displays of discipline, and the taking of an oath to serve and protect the city with integrity and dedication.
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr congratulated the graduating officers, urging them to maintain high standards of professionalism and respect for human rights while carrying out their responsibilities. She reminded the officers that wearing the Metropolitan Police uniform comes with a responsibility to represent the Freetown City Council and serve residents of the capital.
The mayor cautioned the new officers against using their uniforms to take advantage of members of the public, instead encouraging them to perform their duties with integrity and honour. She emphasized the importance of upholding the public trust and serving the community with dedication.
Outstanding recruits were recognised with awards during the passing-out ceremony for their performance throughout the training programme. The graduation adds 70 newly trained officers to the Freetown Metropolitan Police, with expectations that they will contribute to improved enforcement and community service across the municipality.
The new officers are expected to apply the discipline and professional standards acquired during their six-week training as they begin serving communities across Freetown. This development is expected to enhance the capacity of the Freetown Metropolitan Police to provide effective security and services to the residents.
The addition of these 70 officers brings new hope for improved policing and community engagement in Freetown. Their deployment is anticipated to make a positive impact on the city's security landscape and foster a safer environment for residents and visitors alike.
Key points
- 70 Metropolitan Police Officers have completed six weeks of intensive training in Freetown.
- Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr urges the officers to maintain high standards of professionalism and respect for human rights.
- The graduating officers are expected to contribute to improved enforcement and community service across Freetown.
