Freetown: The Ministry of Internal Affairs convened a rotating inter-agency meeting at the Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) to enhance operational delivery and collaboration within the security sector.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the meeting was chaired by the Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq, who commended the heads of agencies for their commitment and collective efforts in driving their mandate. He promised to leverage oversight policy and political will to transform the Ministry's agencies and departments to elevate their performance. The Minister urged sustained collaboration, emphasizing dedicated teamwork and diligent effort to resolve security issues. He implored the staff to execute their duties with utmost care and professional integrity.
Minister Lengor Esq announced an engagement with the Sierra Leone Police across the Western area and other regions to map a proactive security strategy. Criminal activity tends to increase during the rainy season, with crime often spiking during heavy rains as criminals target vulnerable sleeping households.
The SLCS Director General, Mr. Joseph J. Senesie, delivered welcoming remarks, thanking the management and staff for hosting the meeting. He briefed the attendees on SLCS operations and discussed upcoming efforts to relieve overcrowding at the Pademba Road Correctional facility. The government and the Ministry of Works and Public Asset are advancing plans to build a new state-of-the-art facility to house inmates.
Chief Immigration Officer of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID), Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq, briefed attendees on the progress of the online passport application system. Since taking office over a year ago, Dr. Baio Esq has driven a significant transformation at SLID by introducing a seamless online passport application system. The SLID has fully digitized the passport acquisition process, allowing citizens to apply easily. The modern system permits users to apply online from anywhere, book a biometric appointment at a chosen location, and designate any SLID office for passport collection.