NGO blames Sierra Leone police for truck accidents in Freetown
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Sierra Loaded
The organisation Justice Reform Initiative-SL accuses the police and the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority of laxity over repeated accidents involving heavy goods vehicles and container trucks in Freetown. It cites poorly maintained vehicles, faulty brakes and officers who allegedly favour payments from hauliers, according to Sierra Loaded.
The Justice Reform Initiative-SL (JRI-SL), a Sierra Leonean civil society organisation, accuses the police and the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) of laxity in the face of recurring accidents involving heavy goods vehicles and container trailers in Freetown. It says so in a statement signed by Victor Lansana Koroma.
According to the NGO, these accidents stem from poor vehicle maintenance, reckless driving, weak regulatory enforcement, daytime movement in congested areas and inadequate freight infrastructure. It claims that some trucks have faulty brakes and worn parts, and is concerned about polluting emissions affecting passengers, pedestrians and traders. It also cites speeding, distracted driving, fatigue and suspected alcohol or substance use.
JRI-SL questions the presence of containers on the streets in daytime on Sander, ECOWAS, Siaka Stevens and Sani Abacha streets, despite traffic restrictions in the central business district. It laments the lack of dedicated routes and parking areas for these trucks.
The organisation relays allegations that hauliers pay bribes to senior police officers and road safety officials to enter the district during the day, rather than driving at night for fear of attacks. It calls on the government to investigate and protect road users.
