By Alhaji Turay
On July 31st of this year, the Sierra Leone Police Council (SLPC) appointed one of their most outstanding officers, Mr. Aiah Edward Samadia as the new Deputy Inspector General of Police.
Mr. Samadia, who has served the Sierra Leone Police for over 40 years, is now the second-highest-ranking officer in the force.
His appointment comes at a time when the region he helps oversee is considered by security experts as “the most troubled and crime-prone” in Sierra Leone.
Mr. Samadia’s appointment has become a hot topic across the country, with many citizens happy over his appointment, saying that he truly deserves the position.
His extensive career includes significant achievements at the national, regional, and international levels.
Mr. Samadia has, over the years, earned the trust and confidence of his superiors, colleagues, and the public.
Before his appointment, Mr. Samadia had served the United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) in 2020 as an Individual Police Officer (IPO), where he held the highly coveted position as Principal Officer of the Former Police Unit (FPU), and among other prominent roles held within the Sierra Leone Police.
The decision to elevate Mr. Samadia to Deputy Inspector General of Police was made by the Sierra Leone Police Council, chaired by His Excellency the President and the Vice President.
Mr. Samadia’s selection was met with overwhelming support from the Police Council, leaving his competitors trailing behind him.
In recognition of his dedication and service, Mr. Samadia was also awarded the title of Best Police Officer of the Year by the Sierra Leone Police Council.
His promotion has been met with joy and approval from some junior police officers and members of the general public who believe that a right choice in the force has been made.
They commended the Police Council, the Inspector General, and the government for appointing a hardworking and capable leader to hold such a critical position.
Some citizens and police, who know this very man, continue to praise the decision-makers for their decision in approving the recommendation for Mr. Samadia’s appointment as Deputy Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police.