By PC 12981 Ishmael Mac Kargbo – CRD –PHQ
On Friday, June 28, 2024, the Community Relations Department (CRD-PHQ), following instructions from Inspector General of Police Mr. Williams Fayia Sellu and through the Director of Gender and Community Affairs, convened a crucial meeting.
The gathering included members of the Local Unit Partnership Board (LPPB), Community Relations Officers/Coordinators, and Police Artistes at the Disciplinary Court of CDIID Police Headquarters, George Street.
Deputy Head of CRD-PHQ, Superintendent Samuel Saio Conteh, presided over the meeting on behalf of the Director of Gender and Community Affairs, AIG Mustapha Kamara, who was unavoidably absent.
The meeting aimed to disseminate the IGP’s directive for LPPB members to support the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) in combating the rising issue of child trafficking, similar to their efforts against the Kush drug.
The Child Trafficking Act of 2022, although a significant legislative step, has seen challenges in enforcement, with recent reports indicating an increase in child trafficking incidents in specific communities within Sierra Leone.
Superintendent Conteh outlined key indicators for stakeholders to identify child trafficking, emphasizing three critical elements which includes confirming that trafficking has indeed occurred, understanding the method used by the perpetrator to acquire the child, determining the intended exploitation, such as sexual exploitation or forced labor.
Members of the LPPB and CROs from various divisions within the Western Area shared insights and strategies to combat child trafficking. It was unanimously agreed that extensive education and training for LPPB stakeholders are essential for them to effectively support efforts to curb the spread of this crime across the country.
Superintendent Conteh also announced his responsibility to mobilize Police Artistes to create songs aimed at sensitizing the public about child trafficking and ways to prevent it.
