24 Children in Police custody for the August 10 terrorists attack in Sierra Leone
He confirmed that among the 24 children there are 6 girls and 18 boys. He also assured them they will be treated with the utmost care, and every subsequent action will be in adherence to compliance which is embedded in the child rights Act
Minister of Internal Affairs, David Maurice Panda-Noah informed Journalists that on 10 August terrorist’s unlawful violent demonstration and protests which claimed the lives of innocent citizens including Security Personnel, 24 children between the ages of 12 to 17 were arrested and they are now in Police Custody. He continued that the Government through the Ministry of Social Welfare and Family Support Units (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police are exploring ways of identifying their Parents or Guardians.
He was making this statement during a press conference held at the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters, George Street, Freetown noting the objective of identifying their parents or guardians is to assure them that their children are in the safe custody of the FSU of the Sierra Leone Police and working out modalities to reunite them with their parents. Further, the Government acknowledged the fundamental rights of Persons, especially children. Also gave full assurance that those children in custody rights have been guaranteed, adding that such rights will continue to be observed while they are in the safe custody of the police.
Minister David Panda-Noah also informed that as a means of demonstrating a commitment his ministry has contacted the relevant line Ministries and Agencies that deal with children, to partner with the FSU so that those children would be adequately taken care of as prescribed by law and other conventions and protocols dealing with children.
Minister David Panda-Noah ended by assuring the parents and family members of these children should not be afraid of identifying their children and therefore their safety is guaranteed. And the doors of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Sierra Leone Police are always open to clarify issues regarding the children in the safe custody of FSU and the parents should take advantage of this opportunity.
Director of Compliance from the Ministry of Social Welfare Ansu Konneh noted that his Ministry has taken full responsibility for the welfare of these children in custody and they are providing opportunities for Child serving Agencies to provide every support, including safe spaces for them while the reunification process continues.
He confirmed that among the 24 children there are 6 girls and 18 boys. He also assured them they will be treated with the utmost care, and every subsequent action will be in adherence to compliance which is embedded in the child rights Act. Among the stakeholders in the press briefing were the out-gone Deputy Inspector General of Police, who is currently Director of Police Affairs in the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the newly appointed Inspector General of Police, and other senior hierarchy within the Sierra Leone Police.
By Mohamed Amara Gando
