Following a devastating road accident in Rokel that claimed at least ten lives on Thursday, Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr has issued an urgent call for the central government to strengthen national road safety measures.

Mayor Aki-Sawyerr reacted to the tragedy after a container reportedly detached from a truck and crushed commuters and bystanders at a busy junction.

In a statement posted on her official Facebook page, the Mayor expressed profound grief while calling for immediate legislative and enforcement action. She stressed that “thoughts and prayers” are no longer enough to address the recurring loss of lives on Sierra Leone’s roads.

“I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of all who lost their lives in the tragic road accident at Rokel,” the Mayor stated. “I urge the government to prioritize road safety and introduce stringent compulsory vehicle checks.”

She concluded by calling for a moment of reflection for the victims while reiterating the need for stricter safety checks to help prevent future tragedies.