CHRDI Welcomes Drop in Over-Detention but Flags Ongoing Rights Violations in Police Cells

A new report by the Campaign for Human Rights Development International (CHRDI) has acknowledged encouraging signs of progress in Sierra Leone’s police detention facilities, particularly a decline in over-detention and overcrowding, but also raises alarm over continuing human rights violations.

During its latest monitoring exercise conducted on Monday, June 23, 2025, CHRDI engaged with 194 suspects across eight police stations in the Western Area. The organization reported that overcrowding in cells had reduced and that fewer suspects were being detained beyond the legal limit compared to previous assessments.

“This improvement shows that sustained monitoring and the human rights training given to police officers are beginning to yield positive results,” the report outlined.

However, the report also documents serious legal breaches that continue to undermine detainees’ rights. Notably, two teenagers remain in custody at separate police stations for over 15 days without charge, awaiting legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Their prolonged detention violates Sierra Leone’s legal time limits for pre-charge detention.

Overall, 56 individuals were found to be detained beyond the legally allowed period. Among the worst-performing stations were Lumley, with 12 such cases, and the CID Headquarters, with 11.

“These incidents, particularly involving minors, demand immediate intervention,” they noted. “While the drop in overcrowding is welcoming, the continued unlawful detention of suspects reveals deep-rooted flaws in legal and institutional accountability,” they furthered

The Human Rights watchdog agency encouraged the Sierra Leone Police, the Ministry of Justice, and the DPP’s office to address systemic delays and ensure prompt legal processing of cases. It also reiterated the need for enhanced safeguards to protect the rights of vulnerable detainees, including children.