The Community Relations Department of the Harbour Police Division in Sierra Leone recently conducted a public sensitisation exercise in several eastern communities in Freetown. The outreach campaign targeted high-density areas, including Ferry Junction, Helena Junction, Jenneh Wright Road, Race Course, and Cline Town. The goal was to educate residents, traders, and young people on the importance of protecting state-owned assets and maintaining community security.
A major focus of the exercise was addressing the persistent theft and destruction of vital public utilities. Officers raised concerns over the widespread theft of Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority cables and the deliberate destruction of billboards and traffic road signs. They warned that vandalising energy infrastructure disrupts basic services, halts local commerce, and poses severe physical dangers to surrounding neighbourhoods.
Residents were urged to maintain constant vigilance and report any suspicious activities near public installations immediately to local law enforcement. The police emphasised that community members have a critical role to play in preventing vandalism and ensuring public safety. By working together, residents and law enforcement can protect Sierra Leone's shared assets and promote community stability.
Recognising the role of youth in community stability, police officers specifically engaged school-going pupils during the exercise. The team cautioned students against engaging in violence, lawlessness, and substance abuse, stressing the devastating long-term impacts of negative peer pressure. Students were encouraged to stay focused on their studies and participate in constructive activities that support their educational and personal development.
The community engagement was carried out in partnership with the Zonal Policing Partnership Board of Peace Market, led by Chairman Mr. Kabba. This collaboration highlights the importance of fostering strong community-police partnerships in effective crime prevention and public safety. By working together, law enforcement and community leaders can address the root causes of vandalism and youth lawlessness.
Police leadership emphasised that community-police partnerships are essential for protecting Sierra Leone's shared assets and promoting community stability. The exercise is part of a broader effort to engage communities and prevent crime. The police continue to work with community leaders and residents to address the critical issues of vandalism and youth lawlessness in Freetown.
The public sensitisation exercise is a significant step towards promoting community security and preventing vandalism in Freetown. Key points from the exercise include the importance of protecting state-owned assets, the devastating impacts of vandalism on local communities, and the critical role of youth in maintaining community stability.
Key points
- The police engaged residents, traders, and young people on the importance of protecting state-owned assets and maintaining community security.
- The exercise was conducted in partnership with the Zonal Policing Partnership Board of Peace Market, led by Chairman Mr. Kabba.
- The police cautioned students against engaging in violence, lawlessness, and substance abuse, stressing the devastating long-term impacts of negative peer pressure.
