Twenty officers of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have departed for the People’s Republic of China to participate in a three-week training programme designed to enhance their skills and strengthen ties between the two nations.

The training is part of the SLP’s ongoing efforts to build a modern, professional, and globally competent police force capable of addressing emerging security challenges.

During the send-off ceremony, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Sahr Yomba Senesi, congratulated the officers and urged them to make full use of the opportunity. He reminded them that their performance and discipline abroad would not only reflect on the SLP but could also determine the continuation of similar partnerships in the future.

“You are not only representing the Sierra Leone Police, but also our country,” DIG Senesi told the departing officers. “Carry yourselves with integrity and discipline, learn as much as you can, and bring back knowledge that will help strengthen our service.”

The Director of Training, Assistant Commissioner of Police Joe Kamanda Bongay, also encouraged the participants to be professional and patriotic throughout their stay. He emphasized that their conduct in China would shape how the world views Sierra Leone, urging them to “be proud ambassadors” of the nation.

ACP Bongay thanked the Chinese government for its long-standing partnership and continued support in improving the capacity of Sierra Leone’s security sector. He expressed hope that the training would expose the officers to new approaches in policing, including community engagement, leadership, and international best practices.

The officers are expected to return home with fresh insights and strategies to help strengthen policing standards across the country.

The 21-day programme underscores the Sierra Leone Police’s growing commitment to professional development and international collaboration as it works to ensure safety, trust, and efficiency within the force.