Port Loko District was rocked by tragedy on the night of Friday, May 10th, 2024, as a police officer fatally shot an Okada rider, sending shockwaves through the community.
The incident, which erupted during a dispute over transport fare along the Kambia highway, has ignited unrest and raised serious concerns about police conduct and human rights violations.
According to eyewitnesses, the altercation between the officer and the rider escalated rapidly, resulting in the tragic death of the Okada rider.
The incident has prompted widespread outrage, with residents taking to the streets in protest, demanding justice and accountability for the victim.
Authorities, including the Resident Minister and local officials, are actively working to quell tensions and restore calm to the city. However, the community’s grief and anger persist as questions surrounding the shooting remain unanswered. The involved officer is reportedly in hiding, further fueling tensions.
This incident highlights the urgent need for police reforms and greater transparency in law enforcement practices.
As the community mourns the loss of one of its own, the Sierra Leone police are under increasing pressure to provide clarity on the events leading up to the tragic shooting. Military and special forces units have been deployed to help maintain order amidst the unrest.
The Sierra Leone police have yet to respond to inquiries regarding their perspective on the incident, leaving the community and the nation anxiously awaiting further developments.