Freetown, Sierra Leone – March 2, 2026 – In a bid to enhance road safety and reduce accidents, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have issued a public notice announcing the enforcement of mandatory crash helmet and seatbelt regulations, effective from Monday, March 9, 2026.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with the SLP’s partners, targets motorbike riders, passengers, and motorists across the country.
According to the notice from the Media and Public Relations Department, all motorbike riders and passengers must wear crash helmets, while front-seat passengers in moving motor vehicles are required to use seatbelts at all times.
The enforcement will roll out in phases, beginning with a week of public education and awareness from March 1 to 7, 2026. During this period, police officers will prioritize reminding motorists, riders, and passengers about the regulations through verbal warnings rather than immediate penalties. The goal is to foster voluntary compliance and highlight the life-saving benefits of these safety measures.
“Non-compliance after this initial phase will not be tolerated,” the notice states, emphasizing that violators will face arrest, fines, or court charges in accordance with the law.
The SLP urges the public to adhere to these rules to avoid the full force of legal consequences.
This move comes amid growing concerns over road fatalities in Sierra Leone, where motorbikes are a common mode of transport in urban areas like Freetown. Road safety advocates have long called for stricter enforcement of such regulations to protect vulnerable road users.
Signed by the Media and Public Relations Department of the Sierra Leone Police, the notice serves as an official warning to all citizens. For inquiries, the public can contact the SLP at +23279509896.
Residents are advised to ensure they have the necessary safety gear ready ahead of the enforcement date to promote safer roads for everyone.
