By: Saidu Jalloh
In a major step to address congestion in Freetown’s Central Business District (CBD), the Government through the Ministry of Internal Affairs, has outlined a strategic plan aimed at sustaining law and order while ensuring the free flow of traffic.
Speaking at the government’s weekly press conference on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at the Miatta Conference Centre, the Minister of Internal Affairs Morie Lengor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining the ban on commercial motorbikes (okadas) in the CBD. He emphasised that the decision to decongest the city center was a consensus agreement among parliamentarians, aimed at restoring order and improving safety.
The minister disclosed that upon assuming office, he engaged the Inspector General of Police regarding plans for the CBD. He was informed that the Sierra Leone Police, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Bike Riders Union (BRU), had developed a decongestion strategy. This initiative commenced on November 1, 2024, with a sensitisation campaign that included warnings and engagements with commercial riders. Demarcated zones were introduced to clearly define areas where bike riders were prohibited.
To enforce compliance, Minister Lengor explained that both police officers and BRU officials had been deployed to monitor and regulate activities within the CBD. He commended their efforts, noting that their presence had significantly reduced both traffic congestion and petty theft in the area. While acknowledging some level of defiance from certain riders, he issued a stern warning that violations of the ban would not be tolerated.
The minister further revealed that enforcement had now moved beyond the warning phase into the compliance stage. He cautioned that not only bike riders but also passengers who aid and abet violations would be held accountable under the law. Punitive measures, including license suspensions, would be imposed on defaulters. Additionally, he highlighted the government’s introduction of mandatory crash helmets for riders, with enforcement set to commence soon.
Despite the stringent measures, Minister Lengor assured that the government remains committed to the safety and well-being of commercial riders. He stressed that while the administration is focused on enforcing order, it also considers itself responsible for the protection of all citizens.
Concluding his remarks, he noted that the decongestion strategy had already yielded positive results. As a result, authorities are now considering scaling back the presence of police officers in favour of trained bike monitors, who will take on greater responsibility in maintaining order within the CBD.