AU Approves Deployment of Sierra Leone Police FPU-6 for Peacekeeping Missions

The African Union Assessment Team, acting on behalf of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), has formally announced that the sixth Formed Police Unit (FPU-6) is ready for deployment in peacekeeping operations to Somalia, on November 17th 2024.

Sierra Leone has been a major partner in the peace process in Somalia. The announcement took place at the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy.

During the announcement at the Academy, the Sierra Leone Police and representatives from African Union Transition Mission in Soma (ATMIS) were present to show their support for the peacekeeping deployment.

The Readiness of FPU-6

Following months of rigorous training, the personnel of FPU-6 exhibited outstanding preparedness and skill, leading to a selection process that recognized only the most qualified candidates for this critical mission.

These scenarios aimed to assess the Unit’s operational capabilities in critical, life-threatening situations in the mission.

AU Approves Deployment of Sierra Leone Police FPU-6 for Peacekeeping Missions

The Sierra Leone Police FPU-6 Assessment

The assessment team’s conclusion was reached after thorough evaluations aligned with international AU standards, emphasizing both individual and collective performance throughout a range of simulation exercises.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) John Tumbay extended his appreciation to the assessment team, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) Executive Management Board, training instructors, and all members of FPU-6 for their dedication and professionalism, which have effectively prepared them for deployment in Somalia.

African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS)

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) is a comprehensive initiative encompassing military, police, and civilian components.

It has been authorized by the African Union and is mandated by the United Nations Security Council, as outlined in the AU Peace and Security Council Communique from the 1068th Meeting and UN Security Council Resolution 2628 (2022).

ATMIS succeeds the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and is specifically tasked with the complete execution of the Somali Transition Plan (STP). The mission officially commenced on April 1, 2022.