Fire Guts Key Offices at State House: Keketoma Sandi and Kandeh Yumkella’s Workspaces DestroyedAssistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Sylvester M.N. Koroma convened a significant meeting with representatives from the Commercial Motorbike Riders’ Union (Okada) and the Tricycle Riders’ Union (Kekeh) at the Regional Police Headquarters in Freetown West.
The purpose of the engagement was to inform the unions about the upcoming enforcement of new designated no-parking zones, which is set to take effect on Monday, April 14, 2025. Key areas targeted for this initiative include Crab Town Junction, Lumley Roundabout, and Regent Road Junction.
During the meeting, AIG Koroma highlighted the escalating traffic congestion in the region. He noted that through consultations with pertinent ministries and agencies, it was determined that crucial areas—including Regent Road Market, Safecon Fuel Station, and Crab Town Junction—require decongestion to improve traffic flow and maintain public order.
AIG Koroma announced the first phase of the initiative, which involves relocating motorcycles (Okadas) to a new parking facility currently used by Waka Fine. Additionally, tricycles (Kekehs) arriving from Goderich will be directed to park in an open space near Juba Bridge.
Emphasizing the importance of compliance, AIG Koroma stated that the new measures aim to enhance traffic management, ensure public safety, and contribute to national development.
He urged all parties to cooperate actively and maintain open lines of communication with the police, underscoring that the success of the initiative relies on collective responsibility. He also noted the Sierra Leone Police’s ongoing transformation from a force to a service, which values dialogue and community engagement.
The President of the Bike Riders Union expressed concerns during the discussion, voicing worries that the proposed parking areas may be insufficient to accommodate all riders and that some designated locations are vulnerable to flooding.
Despite these concerns, the riders demonstrated a commitment to law and order by pledging to comply with the new regulations starting Saturday, April 12, 2025—two days ahead of the official enforcement date.
In a move that exemplified proactive leadership, AIG Koroma and members of his team, along with a selection of riders, visited the designated parking areas immediately following the meeting. Together, they assessed the proposed sites and commenced the demarcation process to ensure smooth compliance with the new parking regulations.
SLP Media Team.
