By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter, D.S
Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a significant step towards enhancing the response to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), the Sierra Leone Police, in collaboration with UNICEF, has commenced a comprehensive five-day training program for 80 officers from the Family Support Unit (FSU).
The training, held simultaneously in two locations, sees 40 officers at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy in Hastings, while another 40 are participating in Bo City. The participants were selected from FSU formations across Freetown-East, Freetown-West, and the Southern Region, with careful attention to maintaining gender balance in the selection process.
At the program’s opening ceremony in Hastings, officers were urged to uphold discipline, engage actively in the sessions, and work closely with facilitators. The training encompasses vital topics such as contemporary investigation techniques, evidence handling, juvenile case management, and legal procedures relevant to SGBV. Additionally, participants will learn effective strategies for responding to victims and executing their duties with professionalism and sensitivity.
Representing the Inspector General of Police, the Director of Training expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its ongoing support. He emphasized that this initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance the operational standards of the police force. The officers were reminded of their responsibility to represent the entire Sierra Leone Police, stressing the importance of protecting the most vulnerable members of society, particularly women and children.
The training program will continue throughout the week at both Hastings and Bo City.
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