By Liz Kamara
The Sierra Leone Police has acquired 10 drones to boost its capabilities in crowd control and surveillance, Inspector General of Police William Fayia-Sellu said.
Speaking on the newly launched Sierra Leone Police Online TV platform, Fayia-Sellu said two of the drones are equipped for riot control and can carry up to 16 teargas canisters each.
He said the drones would be deployed “if the need arises,” as part of efforts to modernise policing and improve response to public order situations.
The development comes as authorities seek to strengthen security operations through the use of technology, particularly in managing large gatherings and monitoring sensitive areas.
However, the move may raise concerns among civil society groups over the potential use of such equipment in public demonstrations and the need for clear regulations governing their deployment.
