CHRDI Condemns Kailahun Violence, Calls for Urgent Dialogue Between Police and Bike Riders

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has strongly condemned the ongoing violent clashes between the Sierra Leone Police and commercial motorcycle riders in Kailahun District, describing the situation as a serious threat to public safety and human rights.

In a press statement issued on Monday, CHRDI expressed concern over the escalating tensions, which have reportedly led to the loss of lives and the destruction of both private and public property in the district.

The human rights body, which holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), said the continued hostility on the streets of Kailahun is unacceptable and warned that the violence could further destabilize the district if urgent steps are not taken.

CHRDI stressed that no grievance should result in lawlessness, just as no law enforcement operation should compromise human life or the dignity of citizens. The organization extended condolences to families who have lost loved ones in what it described as preventable incidents.

The organization called on the Government of Sierra Leone and relevant authorities to take swift and decisive measures to de-escalate the situation before it worsens.

It also urged the Sierra Leone Police to end what it described as high-handedness, emphasizing that officers must exercise restraint, respect the fundamental rights of citizens, and operate within the confines of the law.

At the same time, CHRDI appealed to commercial motorcycle riders and their unions to remain calm, respect the law, avoid acts of vandalism, and pursue peaceful and legal means in addressing their grievances.

Speaking on the crisis, CHRDI Chief Executive, Abdul M. Fatoma, said the cycle of violence and impunity must come to an end.

He noted that public trust cannot be built through oppression, just as justice cannot be sought through destruction, urging police leadership, local authorities, and the Bike Riders Union to urgently establish an emergency dialogue platform to address the root causes of the conflict and find a lasting solution.