Acting Chief Justice Urges Community Parenting to Combat Crime in Bo District

September 3, 2024

The Acting Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Hon. Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke, has called for the implementation of "community parenting" in Bo District to address the escalating crime rates. During a visit to the overcrowded Male Correctional Centre, where he addressed over 200 inmates, Justice Browne-Marke expressed deep concern over the high number of young people in detention. He emphasized the importance of reviving traditional child-rearing practices within communities to prevent youth from turning to crime.

Justice Browne-Marke lamented that many young individuals who should be contributing to the country's future are instead imprisoned. Despite recent initiatives such as the release of over 100 inmates and the construction of new court facilities, the correctional centre remains severely overcrowded, housing 249 inmates.

Chief Superintendent David Kamara noted that 138 inmates are currently involved in court proceedings, while Resident Judge Hon. Justice Abu Bakarr Sannoh pointed out the challenges many detainees face in meeting bail conditions due to unreliable sureties.

Local resident Mohamed Sowa echoed the Chief Justice's sentiments, noting that rising drug abuse and other harmful influences have made parenting more difficult. The Acting Chief Justice’s call is aimed at mobilizing community leaders, religious figures, and parents to address the root causes of crime and promote better youth development in Bo District.