The Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) in the North-West Region currently has only one vehicle to transport inmates to court. This single vehicle serves inmates with cases in Lungi, Port Loko, Kambia, Masiaka, and Lunsar, as well as High Court sittings in Kambia and Port Loko.
This serious transportation shortage is causing frequent delays in court proceedings. On many occasions, magistrates are unable to hear cases because inmates cannot be transported to court on time. As a result, many accused persons remain in custody longer than necessary while awaiting their day in court.
The saying, “Justice delayed is justice denied,” is especially relevant in this situation. Every person who comes before the law has the constitutional right to a fair and timely hearing. When logistical challenges prevent courts from sitting, that right is undermined, and confidence in the justice system is weakened.
Providing adequate transportation for correctional services is a fundamental responsibility of the government. Reliable transport is essential not only for moving inmates safely and securely but also for ensuring that the courts function efficiently and that justice is delivered without unnecessary delay.
To strengthen the administration of justice in the North-West Region, the government should urgently provide additional vehicles to the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre. Doing so would help reduce case backlogs, improve coordination between correctional facilities and the courts, and ensure that justice is accessible, timely, and fair for all.
One of the communications officers at the SLCS, whose name was withheld, told this medium that she indeed acknowledged the fact that only one vehicle is serving all five Magistrates’ Courts in the North-East.
She further stated that if the journalist needed more details on the issue, he should contact the Deputy Director of the SLCS. Vantage newspaper was unable to reach out to the Deputy Direct on to press time.
