By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
As part of its efforts to ensure public safety and orderliness during the upcoming festive season, the Sierra Leone Roads Safety Authority (SLRSA) convened a one-day security meeting on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Bo City Council Chambers, Kortugbuma Section, Bo. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Bo City Council, the Road Safety Committee, Civil Society Organizations, the Traders’ Union, Drivers’ Union, Bo Riders Union (BRU), and members of the media. The primary goal of the meeting was to develop a coordinated security and enforcement strategy aimed at maintaining peace and protecting lives during the festive period.
In his opening remarks, the Regional Head of Station South at SLRSA, Mr. Victor Kobba, emphasized the Authority’s commitment to promoting road safety and discipline throughout the region. He specifically cautioned against the sale and consumption of drugs and alcohol in lorry parks, noting that many road accidents are caused by drivers and riders operating under the influence of such substances.
“The planning meeting provides an opportunity to design strong mitigating measures for prompt enforcement, ensuring the city remains safe and orderly,” Mr. Kobba stated.
He further highlighted the importance of collaboration among the SLRSA, the police, and the city council in achieving meaningful results.
“Teamwork should be our mantra in protecting lives, especially during the festive season. The sale of drugs and other harmful substances in parks must not be tolerated,” he added.
In his keynote address, Bo City Mayor Kobba Musa reaffirmed the Council’s support for the initiative, calling it a timely step toward enhancing law enforcement and ensuring a safe festive atmosphere.
“The Council remains fully committed to supporting the SLRSA, the Police, and other partners in enforcing laws that safeguard lives during the festive season,” Mayor Musa stated. “We must ensure that traders, riders, and drivers regulate the conduct of their members without fear or favor.”
He also appealed to Civil Society Organizations and the Office of National Security (ONS) to intensify public awareness campaigns promoting respect for law and order. Mayor Musa urged law enforcement agencies to act decisively in eliminating the sale of drugs and alcohol in transport parks.
Representatives from the Traders’ Union, Drivers’ Union, Bo Riders Union, ONS, and various Civil Society groups also made valuable contributions, pledging their full cooperation in ensuring a safe and incident-free festive season.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolution to strengthen collaboration among all stakeholders for effective monitoring, enforcement, and public awareness campaigns across Bo and its surrounding areas.