In a public notice dated December 20, 2023, the Sierra Leone Police have assured the public of their commitment to ensuring a safe and secure festive season. The notice outlines various guidelines for the general public to adhere to during this period.

Firstly, it emphasizes that loud music or noisy activities are prohibited after 10:00 p.m. in communities, as per Section 13 of the Public Order (Amendment) Act, 2020. The Police urge citizens to avoid disturbing others during the festive celebrations.

Additionally, street processions or carnivals require written permission from the Inspector General of Police, as stated in Section 14 of the Public Order (Amendment) Act, 2020. The aim is to regulate public gatherings and ensure they proceed without causing inconvenience to others.

The notice also highlights the illegality of firing guns or using fireworks to the injury or annoyance of others, citing Section 6 of the Public Order (Amendment) Act, 2020. This measure aims to prevent potential hazards and disturbances during the celebrations.

Saloon bars and entertainment venues are reminded of their official closing hour at 11:00 p.m., as per Section 27 of Cap 238 of the Liquor Licensing Ordinance. The Police will enforce this closing hour if there is reasonable ground to believe that the operation of these establishments poses an annoyance to the community.

Motorists are urged to adhere to traffic laws, with a specific emphasis on not driving under the influence of alcohol (Section 102 of the Road Traffic Act, 2007) and not driving unregistered vehicles (Section 5 of the Road Traffic Act, 2007). Vehicles with valid G-Plates or Temporal Vehicle Registration should not ply the roads after 6:00 p.m., and misusing registered vehicles is punishable by law.

The notice also reaffirms existing regulations, including the moratorium on street jogging, the prohibition of “okada” operations in the Central Business District of Freetown and other prohibited areas, and the requirement for written police clearance for mask devils, masquerades, esoteric societies, and religious bodies wishing to engage in processions.

All Police Commanders nationwide have been instructed to professionally enforce these guidelines, considering public safety and community well-being. The Inspector General of Police and the entire Sierra Leone Police force extend warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all citizens.

As Sierra Leoneans prepare for the festive season, these guidelines aim to strike a balance between celebrating joyfully and maintaining the peace and security of communities across the country