Police Intensify School Outreach on Drugs, Sexual Offences in Kenema

The Local Unit Commander of the Kenema Division, Chief Superintendent Emmanuel Kpulun, on the second day of the school education programme led an interactive engagement with pupils and staff of Saint James Secondary School in Kenema City.

The session forms part of the Sierra Leone Police ongoing school outreach initiative aimed at addressing drug abuse, sexual offences, and other anti-social behaviours among young people.

Moderating the engagement was Sub-Inspector Brima James Musa, Regional Media Officer East, who explained that the programme seeks to educate pupils on the dangers of drug abuse, addiction, and other unlawful activities that could jeopardize their future.

At the outset, Sergeant Mariama Bockarie, Regional Coordinator of the Community Relations Department, elaborated on the community policing approach currently being implemented as the police transition from “Force” to “Service.” She encouraged pupils to see themselves as responsible students and future leaders rather than potential offenders, emphasizing that discipline and respect for the law must begin within the school environment.

Meanwhile, Sergeant 476 Lebbie Francis, Supervisor of the Sexual Assault Syndicate (SAS) under the Family Support Unit in Kenema Division, sensitized both pupils and teachers on the amended Sexual Offences Act 2019. He underscored that the sentencing guidelines under the law are stringent and apply without exemption based on age, stressing that anyone found guilty of sexual offences minor or adult will face the full weight of the law.

In his address, Chief Superintendent Kpulun commended the school administration and pupils for their cooperation and active participation. He reiterated that the transition from Force to Service is designed to foster closer ties between the police and communities, describing it as a master–servant relationship in which the community is the master and the police serve with professionalism and respect.

He further admonished pupils to adopt zero tolerance for drugs and to promptly report any drug-related activities to school authorities. Warning that the law remains uncompromising on drug offences, he also cautioned against anti-social behaviours such as truancy, fighting, bullying, theft, gang association, sexual misconduct, and loitering outside school premises during school hours.

Additionally, Sergeant Mariama Bockarie warned pupils to remain within the school compound while classes are in session, disclosing that a police operation has been launched to apprehend any pupil found unlawfully leaving school during school hours.

The outreach programme continues as part of broader efforts to strengthen community policing and promote lawful conduct among school-going youths in Kenema.