By Alfred Koroma
Our lives are at risk, Sulaiman Kelvin Bangura, a CSV Officer tells Concord Times as his colleague dutifully scoops out water that seeps from underground into their office.
“The roof leaks and water is also coming from underground,” he said. “We need help.”
It’s palpable, Sulaiman and Police Officers attached to Rokupa-Portee Police Post work in a very damp and challenging environment, as water continuously seeps and flows into the office where they attend to complainants. They can’t stop bailing.
The Police Post has remained like this for decades, and it’s not clear how comes authorities have not seen the need to improve its condition, despite several requests made.
The building police occupy here is part of Rokupa Wharf Community Primary School building given to use as a police post for the community. Sierra Leone Police has occupied the building since1984, Bangura who is also an indigene of the community said. The School itself, he said was founded in 1974.
The problem of Rokupa-Portee Police Post is not only in the interior of the building. The surrounding of the building as well, is far from being conducive.
At the entrance of the Police post, settles a stinking stagnant water in what looks like a shallow drainage, serving as a perfect habitat for mosquitos and other insects, rodents, posing health risks to officers attached there.
This place has been like this for years. We have reported to authorities, but no action actions has been taken,” Chief Inspector, Gibrilla M Conteh said. “We cannot even wear decent things to come here because when you come you meet water.”
Police Constable, Mustapha Bangura said they stopped using the police cell because of its damp and wettish condition. “We can’t put humans in such place,” he explained, further complaining of lack furniture in their work place.
