By Kadijatu Bangura, D.S. Reporter
Senior security officials from Sierra Leone and Liberia have reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing cross-border security cooperation following a high-level bilateral meeting in Jendema. The strategic engagement brought together representatives from the Sierra Leone Police, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, the Liberia Immigration Service, the Mano River Union, and the National Revenue Authority, among other stakeholders.
Discussions aimed at reinforcing joint operational frameworks and enhancing intelligence-sharing mechanisms along their shared border were led by Assistant Inspector General of Police Andrew Mustapha Kamara, Regional Police Commander South. He emphasized the importance of transforming borders into structured gateways that promote lawful movement, economic growth, and peaceful coexistence rather than barriers fostering suspicion.
Brigade Commander A.O. Kamara of the 5 Brigade Gondama reiterated the military’s commitment to securing territorial integrity while ensuring seamless coordination with neighboring security agencies. The session was moderated by Lieutenant Colonel A.K. Sesay, Commanding Officer of the 14 Infantry Battalion in Pujehun, who facilitated constructive dialogue among participants.
Liberian representatives, including George S. Rogers Jr., Head of the Border Patrol Unit, confirmed their nation’s commitment to joint patrols and intelligence coordination. Danny B. Conteh, Director of the Liberia Immigration Service, underlined the need for harmonized border governance and systematic information exchange to enhance security and efficiency.
From a regional integration standpoint, Ibrahim Kofi of the Mano River Union Immigration stressed that cross-border collaboration is vital for regional stability and economic development. Mujiru I.I. Kallon from the National Revenue Authority’s Customs Department emphasized that secure and well-regulated borders are crucial for facilitating legitimate trade and curtailing illicit activities.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Assistant Inspector General John Martin Senesie, Director of Operations, highlighted the importance of professionalism, capacity building, and doctrinal alignment within the Sierra Leone Police as foundational elements for sustainable cross-border security cooperation.
Beyond operational matters and patrol schedules, the meeting focused on building trust among border communities, preventing illicit trade and irregular migration, and combating transnational crimes. Participants collectively emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, which both nations have worked hard to achieve.
The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment from both sides to protect their shared frontier through unity, structured coordination, and mutual respect. The discussions in Jendema sent a clear message: security along the Mano River corridor is a shared responsibility, and continued collaboration is essential for sustained stability and peace along the Sierra Leone–Liberia border.
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