Kenema Police Launch Helmet Safety Campaign for Motorbike Riders

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) Kenema Division has officially launched a public sensitization campaign aimed at promoting the use of crash helmets among motorbike riders, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance road safety across the division.

The initiative was led by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Emmanuel Kpulun, Local Unit Commander of Kenema Division, with operational support from Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ensah Ngunya, Divisional Traffic Officer.

During the engagement, officers educated riders and the public on the importance of wearing helmets, fastening seatbelts, observing road signs, and complying with traffic regulations to prevent accidents and save lives.

CSP Kpulun clarified that, for now, the compulsory helmet directive applies only to riders. He explained that while the initial directive included both riders and passengers, public concerns regarding potential health implications prompted a temporary limitation to riders only.

ASP Ngunya urged all riders, including commercial operators and private individuals, to comply with the regulation ahead of full enforcement scheduled for Monday, 9 March 2026. He warned that traffic personnel, supported by other law enforcement agencies, will closely monitor compliance, and riders who fail to adhere will face legal action.

The sensitization exercise also saw participation from key members of the Bike Riders Union in Kenema District, including Chairman Patrick Braima Mando, who pledged the union’s full support and stated that it will not defend riders who deliberately refuse to comply with the Road Traffic Regulation.

The campaign is part of the Sierra Leone Police’s broader strategy to promote responsible road usage and reduce traffic accidents across Kenema and the wider Eastern Region.