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The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have cautioned members of the Kenema District Bike Riders Union against engaging in any acts capable of disrupting public peace as tensions continue over a leadership dispute within the union.
The warning was issued by the Regional Police Commander East, ACP Joe Kamanda Bongay, during a mediation meeting convened to help resolve the impasse between rival factions of the union.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the District Chairman of the Bike Riders Union, Mohamed Kelleh Mansaray, the Chairman of St. Charles Park, Morison Pessima, and the Regional Coordinator of the Crime Detection, Intelligence and Investigations Department (CDIID) East, CSP Osman Sesay.
During the discussions, District Chairman Mohamed Kelleh Mansaray alleged that the leadership of St. Charles Park has consistently refused to recognize the district executive or participate in officially sanctioned union activities since he assumed office.
Responding to the allegations, St. Charles Park Chairman Morison Pessima maintained that members of his park would not cooperate with the district executive until a power-sharing arrangement is agreed upon. He argued that his members were neither elected nor appointed by the current district leadership and therefore sought greater representation in the union’s administration.
Addressing both sides, ACP Bongay stressed that any legal disagreements over the union’s leadership should be settled through the courts rather than through actions that could threaten public order.
He warned that the police would not tolerate any attempt to incite violence, obstruct legitimate union activities, or encourage disorder, emphasizing that anyone found violating the law would face appropriate legal action.
The Regional Police Commander further urged all parties to exercise restraint, pursue peaceful dialogue, and use lawful mechanisms to address their grievances.
He reaffirmed the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to preserving peace and security across Kenema District, assuring residents that the force remains prepared to take all necessary measures to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
