On June 28, 2024, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) celebrated a significant achievement in their efforts to modernize and enhance their criminal investigation capabilities. Fourteen officers were certified in the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), a state-of-the-art technology for collecting, processing, and protecting fingerprint data.

This milestone was reached following an intensive two-week Training of Trainers (TOT) program. The training was conducted by experts from the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) and was funded by the European Union. This program is a key step in equipping the SLP with advanced tools necessary for effective crime investigation.

During the certification ceremony, Commissioner of Police Joseph Ibrahim Lahai, representing the Inspector General of Police, commended the officers for their dedication and successful completion of the training. Commissioner Lahai stressed the critical importance of modernizing the police force's investigative capabilities. He urged the newly certified trainers to disseminate their newfound knowledge among their colleagues, thereby fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the force.

Detective Samuel Serry, Manager of AFIS, highlighted the training's significance in establishing a robust crime monitoring system in Sierra Leone. He explained that without biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition, shared data remains merely ordinary biodata. The initial development of a mini-AFIS system in Sierra Leone, which successfully captured criminals’ fingerprints, served as a proof of concept that secured further funding from the European Union for the broader WAPIS program.

Emmanuel Pratt, the training facilitator and Forensic Adviser to AFIS, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the TOT program. The training covered a wide array of topics, including crime scene protection, data processing, and laboratory analysis. Pratt underscored that these activities are part of WAPIS's capacity-building component, which aims to enhance the technical and operational skills of law enforcement officers.

The certification of these 14 officers marks a pivotal moment in the SLP’s ongoing efforts to improve its investigative capabilities. With their advanced training, these officers are expected to significantly enhance crime detection and prevention across the country. This development also underscores the SLP’s commitment to protecting citizens’ data through sophisticated biometric systems.

Overall, this advancement represents a positive stride towards modernizing law enforcement in Sierra Leone, aligning it with international best practices. It also highlights the collaborative efforts between Sierra Leone and international partners, such as the European Union and the WAPIS program, in strengthening the country’s criminal justice system.

Ishaqa S. Jalloh

Ishaqajalloh@sierraleonews.com

+23278799279