The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has announced a ban on commercial motorcycles operating within the Central Business District (CBD)

 The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has announced a ban on commercial motorcycles operating within the Central Business District (CBD) of Freetown, effective February 1, 2025. This decision was disclosed during a meeting held at police headquarters on January 11, which brought together stakeholders, including the Bike Riders Union, civil society organizations, and enforcement bodies.

The ban aims to ease traffic congestion and enhance public safety in the CBD. Assistant Inspector General (AIG) John Senesie, speaking on behalf of the police, acknowledged the critical role commercial motorcyclists play in providing employment and transportation services. However, he emphasized the need for compliance, noting that the measure is essential for maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all road users.

“We understand the importance of bike riders in creating jobs and facilitating transportation, but this ban is necessary to ensure a free flow of traffic and public safety,” AIG Senesie stated.

Collaboration and Safety Measures

Commissioner of Traffic Management and Road Safety, Abdul Moijueh, highlighted the history of tensions between bike riders and the police, urging mutual cooperation to prevent future conflicts.

“We don’t want to see any conflict between the police and bike riders,” Commissioner Moijueh remarked. He also stressed the importance of safety equipment, such as helmets, for riders and passengers across Freetown and the rest of the country.

Similarly, Mr. Kaitongi, Director of Safety and Enforcement at the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), emphasized the need for training programs to improve compliance and safety awareness among bike riders. He noted that the engagement is part of a broader initiative to foster collaboration between enforcement agencies and riders.

Affected Areas

From February 1, commercial motorcyclists will no longer be permitted to operate on key streets and roads in Freetown’s CBD. These include:

Kennedy Street

Kissy Road

Fourah Bay Road

Sani Abacha Street

East End Police Clock Tower

Goderich Street

Lumley/Free Street

Upper East Street

Circular Road

Regent Road

Pademba Road

Cotton Tree

Percival Street

Charlotte Street

Wilberforce Street

Gloucester Street

Howe Street

Rawdon Street

Wallace-Johnson Street

Lamina Sankoh Street

Siaka Stevens Street

Pultney Street

Bathurst Street

Dundas Street

Adelaide Street

Kroo Town Road

Sanders Street

Campbell Street

Savage Street

Waterloo Street

Brook Street

Wellington Street

Naimbana Street

Charles Street

Jones Street

Moving Forward

The ban represents a significant step by the Sierra Leone Police to address the growing challenges of urban traffic and public safety in Freetown. While the policy may initially cause inconvenience for bike riders and commuters, authorities stress the importance of collaboration and adherence to safety regulations to achieve long-term benefits for all stakeholders.

The police and the SLRSA remain committed to working with the Bike Riders Union to ensure a smooth implementation of the ban while promoting safety and order across the city.