Commercial motorbike (Okada) riders in the Western Area of Freetown took to the streets on Tuesday, February 6th, 2024, to protest against what they claim is harassment by police officers, who are allegedly restricting them from using certain routes in the city.

The protest was triggered by reported actions from police officers, which the riders argue intensified after the introduction of Waka Fine buses by the government, which commenced operations recently.

The demonstrators gathered in the streets, forming blockades that hindered the movement of Waka Fine buses and other vehicles, asserting their right as citizens to operate equally within the city.

Speaking out during the protest, the riders voiced their grievances, emphasizing that the police actions have had a detrimental impact on their daily earnings, making it challenging to support themselves and their families.

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