By Prince J Musa in Kenema
The Police had to restore order in Kenema on Wednesday 17th November after protesting taxi bike riders attacked personnel and the office of the Sierra Leone Roads Safety Corps in the city, after rumors that a biker running away from arrest died in a crash.
However, confirmed reports say the biker named Bockarie Vandi crashed into a drainage and sustained an injury to his chin and minor bruises to the body. Earlier rumors had swelled around that Bockarie died on the spot, which caused colleague bike riders to storm the streets attacking traffic workers and their office building.
The Director for Road Safety and Enforcement, Sierra Leone Roads Safety Authority (SLRSA), Augustine Kai-Tongay described the whole incident as unfortunate.
‘’The claim that the boy died is not true and he is presently responding to treatment at the government hospital’’, Kai-Tongay told Politico.
He said a group of bikers attacked the SLRSA office at Blama road, pelting the building with stones and other objects which prompted him to ask for Police help.
He said he led a team from his office that held a meeting with the Mayor, the Police leadership in Kenema, and members of the Bike Riders Union. He said the matter is being investigated and findings will be made public. Kai Tongay added that they have discussed with the Traffic Police about the manner of arresting defaulting bikers in given circumstances that could avoid placing lives at risk.
The SLRSC director claimed many bikes are unregistered even when they are now trying to introduce the biometric system.
The Police Divisional Traffic Head, ASP Amara Moijueh explained how a road safety corps personnel was manhandled which drew a swift Police response that resulted in the seizure of ten bikes, though no rider was arrested ‘’Our role as security is to protect lives and prosperities and we will not sit by to see disorder in the society especially when the festive season is closer’’ ASP Moijueh emphasised.
The Chairman of the biker’s union, Sahr Feiya Kpaiga condemned the attitude of some of their members in taking the law into their hands. He said they as executives would cooperate with the authorities in ensuring there is peace in the area.
Copyright © Politico Online 17/11/21
