Police Clarify Allegations of Selective Enforcement of School Cross-Country Ban in Kenema

The Sierra Leone Police in Kenema has clarified its role amid growing public debate over the enforcement of a national directive suspending school cross-country activities.

In a statement issued on 21 April 2026, the Kenema Police Division emphasized its commitment to fairness, due process, and the safety of all participants, following public reactions to police presence at a Health Walk organised by the Islamic Secondary School Kenema.

According to the police, their presence at the event was not an act of preferential treatment but stemmed from prior engagement, planning, and adherence to established safety procedures.

Ahead of the activity, the Local Unit Commander for Kenema Division, Chief Superintendent Emmanuel Kpulun, in consultation with the Regional Police Commander East, Assistant Inspector General Francis Brima Meinday, alongside other senior officers, held discussions with the school’s administration.

The meeting focused on risk assessment, crowd control measures, route planning, and broader public safety considerations. Following this engagement, the exercise was structured to allow for effective policing and coordination.

Police authorities maintained that officers were deployed not to endorse any activity in defiance of national guidance, but to ensure that where events proceed within a controlled and assessed framework, public safety remains paramount.

Observers note that policing often requires balancing enforcement with practical realities. In cases where institutions engage authorities proactively and comply with safety protocols, law enforcement may opt for structured supervision to mitigate risks rather than allow disorder.

Under the leadership of CSP Kpulun, the division reaffirmed its commitment to providing security services equitably, particularly where due process is followed and there is transparency in planning.

The development also highlights the importance of communication and coordination between institutions and law enforcement agencies. Authorities noted that early engagement and clarity of intent can lead to more orderly and less contentious outcomes.

Community members have continued to call for clearer communication regarding the implementation of national directives, particularly those affecting schools and young people. Many believe consistent stakeholder engagement will help reduce misunderstandings and strengthen public trust.

While public concerns remain part of a healthy civic environment, the situation in Kenema underscores the complexities of real-time policing—where decisions are guided not only by policy, but also by safety considerations, preparedness, and cooperation.

The Kenema Police Division reiterated that effective policing is not solely about enforcement, but also about responsible coordination in the interest of public safety.