Freetown: The Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by Hon. AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor Esq., today held a high-level engagement with the Executive of the Bike Riders Union (BRU) to address growing concerns over lawlessness, public safety, and misconduct involving some commercial bike riders across the country.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the meeting, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room, focused on persistent issues including street fights, failure by some riders to wear official identification helmets, and indiscriminate parking of motorcycles at key junctions, which continues to obstruct traffic flow.
Speaking during the engagement, Minister Lengor referenced recent violent clashes in Kailahun involving bike riders and police, and issued a strong warning against any attempt by riders to take the law into their own hands. He called for immediate compliance with national laws and stressed that any further acts undermining public order would attract more severe consequences.
Minister Lengor also condemned the recurring practice in which vehicles are set ablaze following fatal or serious road accidents involving riders. He noted that such actions cannot be justified under any slogan or group sentiment and warned that violence, destruction of property, and disregard for due process pose a serious threat to peace, the rule of law, and national security.
He further expressed concern over BRU’s former slogan, ‘Touch One, Touch All,’ describing it as misleading and potentially threatening. He urged Union leadership to adopt stronger disciplinary measures within its ranks and to promote lawful, peaceful channels for addressing grievances.
Also speaking at the meeting, Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. Andrew M. Kamara and Director of Traffic Management AIG Abdul Moijueh condemned rising incidents of disorder linked to some bike riders. Both officials highlighted the Kailahun unrest as a serious example and called on BRU leadership to intensify sensitization efforts aimed at discouraging vigilante actions and promoting compliance with the law.
In response, the BRU Executive, including Vice President and Spokesperson, reaffirmed commitment to stronger collaboration with government, improved compliance with traffic regulations, and more responsible conduct among commercial bike riders in the interest of public safety and national development. The Executive also raised concerns affecting leadership’s ability to effectively discharge its responsibilities and appealed for government support in addressing those challenges.
BRU further confirmed that its official slogan has been changed from ‘Touch One, Touch All’ to ‘Bike Riders Responsibility,’ signaling renewed commitment to discipline, accountability, and constructive engagement.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to establish a joint committee to implement the SLP-BRU Memorandum of Understanding through fortnightly review meetings. Parties also agreed to hold a press conference to formally announce the Union’s slogan change and reaffirm shared commitment to lawfulness, peace, and public order.