By:Thaimu T. Kamara
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen police community relations and enhance public safety across Samu Chiefdom, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Kambia Police Division, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Sao Vandy, on Saturday, 13 December 2025, engaged key stakeholders at the Kychom Community Centre.
The meeting, which commenced at exactly 10:00 a.m., brought together community leaders, youths, transport operators and other partners to deliberate on critical security concerns affecting the chiefdom. Key issues discussed included the ban on mask devils during the festive season, the prevention of land disputes, and the growing threat of harmful drug abuse.
Addressing participants, CSP Sao Vandy said the engagement was aimed at deepening collaboration between the police and community members, while raising awareness on existing security regulations. He reiterated the total ban on the parade and performance of mask devils, stressing that no individual is permitted to engage in such activities. He warned that anyone found violating the ban will be arrested, investigated and charged to court.
On land disputes, the LUC cautioned residents against taking the law into their own hands. He urged community stakeholders to report all land-related conflicts to the appropriate authorities for lawful and timely resolution, rather than resorting to violence.
CSP Sao Vandy also issued a strong warning against the sale, smuggling and consumption of harmful drugs, particularly tramadol, cannabis sativa and kush. He described the substances as deadly, noting that they have claimed the lives of many young people across the country. He emphasized that individuals involved in drug-related activities will face arrest and prosecution.
The LUC further called on stakeholders to support the police in tackling other crimes and social vices, including smuggling of contraband goods, human trafficking, early marriage, teenage pregnancy and domestic violence, especially during the festive season.
In his closing remarks, CSP Sao Vandy encouraged residents to act as responsible “neighbourhood keepers” by monitoring activities within their communities and providing timely and accurate information to the police on any suspicious acts.
The engagement ended on a positive note, with community stakeholders expressing appreciation to the LUC and his team for the timely awareness-raising initiative, particularly on the enforcement of the mask devil ban during the festive period.