Femi Claudius-Cole Calls for Urgent Reform of Traffic Policing in Sierra Leone Over Extortion Claims

The Chairperson of the Unity Party, Femi Claudius-Cole, has issued a strong call for the urgent reform of traffic policing in Sierra Leone, alleging that widespread extortion, intimidation, and abusive practices by some traffic officers and wardens have become an organised system of racketeering.

In a press statement dated May 24, 2026, Claudius-Cole expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of law and order on the roads, particularly in Freetown and its environs.

While acknowledging that some officers perform their duties professionally, she said the conduct of a significant number of others has severely damaged public confidence and created widespread resentment.

“The treatment meted out daily to drivers of private vehicles, and more especially to poda poda, kekeh, and okada riders, has become disturbing, disheartening, and unacceptable,” she said.

Claudius-Cole noted that life in Sierra Leone is already extremely difficult, particularly for youth facing high unemployment and limited economic opportunities. She added that most drivers do not own their vehicles and must make daily or weekly payments to owners while struggling to support their families.

She described dangerous and abusive practices including officers intercepting drivers while standing in the middle of busy roads, stopping riders at intersections or around curves, manhandling drivers, and using sticks or forceful methods to apprehend them — actions that endanger officers, passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.

Claudius-Cole also highlighted the phenomenon of so-called “love breaks” — friendly stops during which drivers are expected to provide “donations” to officers.

“What many citizens now observe daily appears less like legitimate traffic law enforcement and more like an organised system of racketeering commonly referred to on the streets as ‘booking,'” she said.

She cited examples where, along short stretches such as from Syke Street through Congo Cross to Murray Town, motorists may encounter multiple checkpoints or stopping points, with police officers and wardens operating independently and making separate demands.

Claudius-Cole further alleged that drivers are often stopped for vague or unclear violations, and that vehicles are impounded or licences seized without formal receipts or proper documentation.

She proposed several reforms, including refresher training for traffic officers, nationwide public education campaigns on traffic regulations, greater transparency on fines collected, a review of salaries and conditions of service for police and wardens, and a review of the cost and accessibility of drivers’ licences.

“Let me be absolutely clear: I am not suggesting that violators of traffic laws should not be held accountable. Law and order must prevail. However, law enforcement must be lawful, humane, transparent, and free from exploitation,” she said.

Claudius-Cole called on the Inspector General of Police, the Anti-Corruption Commission, and all relevant authorities to urgently investigate the concerns and initiate meaningful reforms before public frustration escalates further.

“Mama Salone deserves better,” she said.