Sierra Leone Achieves Significant Milestone at GIABA’s 42nd

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 Sierra Leone Achieves Significant Milestone at GIABA’s 42nd Technical Commission/Plenary and 29th Ministerial Committee Meeting

On the first day of the GIABA 42nd Technical Commission/Plenary, Sierra Leone achieved a remarkable milestone in its ongoing fight against money laundering, terrorist financing, and the financing of proliferation (AML/CFT/PF). This crucial gathering, hosted from November 17th-23rd, 2024, brought together experts, technical partners, and member states to assess regional challenges and strategies.

A key highlight of the first day’s proceedings was the defense of Sierra Leone’s position regarding Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) under FATF Recommendation 15 on New Technologies. Previously categorized as "High Risk" due to the absence of a legal framework at the time of assessment, Sierra Leone presented significant advancements that have transformed its status, including but not limited to:

1. Conducting a comprehensive sectoral risk assessment to identify potential vulnerabilities.
2. Developing legislation to establish a compliance regime for VASPs.
3. Introducing a regulatory framework by the Bank of Sierra Leone to recognize and monitor VASPs.
4. Undertaking covert operations to detect unregulated VASP activities and strengthen enforcement.

While Sierra Leone has not identified any active VASPs, its proactive measures reflect a commitment to mitigate risks associated with this emerging sector. During the plenary, through the Head of the Financial Intelligence Agency, Mr. David Borbor, Sierra Leone presented a compelling case for reclassification. We effectively advocated for an upgrade from “High Risk” to “Largely Compliant,” a position strongly supported by numerous member states who recognized our strides in addressing identified gaps.

As the Head of the Legal and Justice Support Department, I was proud to contribute to this success by supporting the Head of the Financial Intelligence Agency and other delegates in showcasing how law enforcement has played a pivotal role in strengthening Sierra Leone’s AML/CFT framework. Our efforts, in collaboration with the Bank of Sierra Leone, have demonstrated the nation’s ability to align investigations, prosecutions, and compliance mechanisms to meet international standards.

This achievement underscores the power of collaboration between institutions and the solidarity of the region in tackling financial crimes. We are excited and we say congratulations to Sierra Leone for this significant step forward! Together, we are building a safer and more secure West Africa.

#GIABA42ndPlenary #AML #CFT #SierraLeone #FinancialIntegrity #VASPs #LawEnforcement #BankOfSierraLeone #Collaboration #ECOWAS

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has consistently strived for excellence in law enforcement and public

service. In line with this commitment, the Inspector General, IGP Fayia Sellu and his Management Team

organized a Four-day workshop from Monday the 7 th to Thursday the 10 th of August 2023.

The Head of the Legal and Justice Support Department, CSP Joan M.S Bull Esq and Senior members of

the Legal and Justice Support Department were amongst a team of Commanders and other Heads of

Departments and Divisions who participated in a two-day workshop conducted by Ex-Police Officers and

Senior Police Officers. The workshop aimed to equip departmental heads with advanced skills,

knowledge, and strategic insights essential for the effective management and development of the police

force.

The training covered a wide array of crucial concepts including Command and Control, Community

Policing, Human Rights, Leadership and Management, Gender Equality and Equity, Crime Management,

Finance Management, Discipline and Arms Control

Key Objectives: The training workshop held significant importance as it focused on addressing

multifaceted challenges faced by the police force in contemporary times. The objectives were as follows:

Enhancing Leadership Skills: The workshop provided a platform for participants to learn about effective

leadership styles, fostering innovation, and promoting a collaborative work environment. This is

instrumental in driving the institution forward and achieving departmental goals.

Promoting Community Policing: The emphasis on community policing showcased the importance of

building strong bonds between the SLP and the communities we serve. This collaborative approach

enhances trust, transparency, and public cooperation in crime prevention and resolution.

Upholding Human Rights and Gender Equality: With discussions on human rights and gender equality,

the workshop underscored the significance of fair and just treatment of all individuals. This is essential

for building public confidence and ensuring the police force operates with integrity and respect for

human dignity. Strengthening Crime Management: The training in crime management strategies equips departmental heads and commanding officers with the tools to effectively combat and prevent crime, thus ensuring public safety and security. Improving Financial Management: The sessions on finance management contribute to the efficient utilization of resources, budget planning, and transparent financial practices within the department.

Maintaining Discipline: Emphasizing discipline underscores the importance of ethical behavior and

adherence to standards of conduct within the police force, maintaining its reputation and credibility.

The Legal and Justice Support Department extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Inspector General of

Police and the Executive Management Board for their foresight and commitment in organizing such a

valuable workshop. This initiative exemplifies the dedication of the leadership to the professional

development of the Sierra Leone Police force.

We also express our gratitude to the organizers of the workshop who meticulously planned and

executed the event. The involvement of Ex-Police Officers and Senior Police Officers as trainers brought

a wealth of practical knowledge and experience to the participants, enriching the learning experience.

The workshop stands as a testament of the commitment of the Inspector General of Police towards

continuous improvement, innovation, and excellence in law enforcement. The concepts covered during

the workshop are integral to shaping the future of the police force as a professional, accountable, and

community-oriented organization. We anticipate that the knowledge gained from this workshop will

translate into enhanced operational efficiency, improved public perception, and a safer society.