AYV News, July 21, 2026
Inspector-General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu,has urged recruits of the Sierra Leone Police Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy (SILEA) in Hastings to demonstrate discipline, professionalism, and commitment as they prepare to commence a two-month On-the-Job Training (OJT) attachment across police formations nationwide.
Speaking during an interactive session with the recruits at the Academy, IGP Sellu described the field attachment as a critical phase in the police training programme, designed to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and practical policing.
He explained that the training curriculum is divided into three phases. The first comprises intensive academic, practical, and medical training; the second focuses on field attachment and practical policing experience; while the third and final phase will begin upon the recruits’ return to SILEA, culminating in their Passing-Out Parade and subsequent deployment into active police service.
According to the Police Chief, the forthcoming attachment will provide recruits with an invaluable opportunity to translate theoretical knowledge into practical law enforcement skills. He noted that they will gain firsthand experience in community policing, crime prevention, operational procedures, investigations, and other aspects of frontline policing.
“The On-the-Job Training is an essential component of your development as future police officers. It is your opportunity to demonstrate what you have learnt and to develop the professionalism expected of members of the Sierra Leone Police,” IGP Sellu told the recruits.
He advised them to approach the exercise with seriousness and dedication, stressing that their conduct and performance during the attachment would play a significant role in shaping their future careers within the Force.
The Inspector-General further reminded the recruits to respect the chain of command and comply with instructions from supervising officers at their respective duty stations. He emphasised that discipline, integrity, punctuality, and respect for authority remain the core values of the Sierra Leone Police and warned that any recruit found violating police regulations would face appropriate disciplinary measures.
IGP Sellu also highlighted the importance of continuous learning and professional development, describing policing as a noble profession that offers opportunities for career advancement and service to the nation. He disclosed that the Sierra Leone Police leadership is implementing reforms aimed at expanding access to higher education, specialised training, and scholarship opportunities for officers seeking to enhance their professional qualifications.
On personnel welfare, the Police Chief assured the recruits that arrangements were being finalised to provide uniforms, rain gear, and other essential operational kits before the completion of their training. He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of its personnel to enable them to perform their duties effectively.
Commending the recruits for successfully completing the first phase of their training, IGP Sellu acknowledged the determination and resilience they had displayed despite the demanding nature of police training. He encouraged them to maintain the same level of commitment during their field attachment and to avoid any conduct that could jeopardise their careers.
“I have confidence in your ability to excel during this attachment. Represent the Academy and the Sierra Leone Police with honour wherever you are posted and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and public service,” he urged.
The recruits expressed appreciation for the Inspector-General’s guidance and motivation, pledging to uphold the values, ethics, and standards of the Sierra Leone Police throughout the two-month attachment.
Upon completion of the nationwide field exercise, the recruits will return to the Sierra Leone Police Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy for the final phase of their training before participating in the Passing-Out Parade and joining the Force as fully-fledged police officers.
