Road Traffic Revenues Near NLe 250K as Fatalities Rise

The Sierra Leone government collected nearly NLe 250,000 in traffic fines during the second quarter of 2026 as part of an intensified nationwide crackdown on vehicular violations. The statistics were disclosed on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, during a police press briefing held at the Police Officers Mess in Kingtom, Freetown.

Despite significant revenue generated from enforcement operations, officials warned that the human toll of road crashes remains severe, with fatalities increasingly threatening lives across the country.

Chief Inspector Edward Kamara, Information Officer for the Traffic Secretariat, highlighted an alarming rise in traffic-related deaths and urged drivers to comply strictly with road regulations. 

"Road crashes now account for more deaths than major health concerns such as malaria, which presents a critical challenge for our nation," Kamara stated.

The widespread enforcement campaign spanned multiple regions, leading to hundreds of arrests and substantial fine collections:

• Eastern Region: 106 arrests | NLe 50,550 collected

• Freetown West: 102 arrests | NLe 49,745 collected

• North West Region: 119 arrests | NLe 49,550 collected

• North East Region: 133 arrests | NLe 47,200 collected

• Freetown East: 93 arrests | NLe 27,666 collected

• South Region: 100 arrests | NLe 24,425 collected

In addition to general motor vehicle enforcement, targeted operations against motorcycle violations since August 15 have yielded NLe 11,450 in fines.

According to Chief Inspector Kamara, key factors contributing to fatal crashes include vehicle overloading, the operation of unlicensed vehicles, and the illegal use of distracting decorative lighting.

While the campaign has generated notable revenue, police authorities emphasized that the initiative's primary objective is to enhance public safety, lower the casualty rate, and protect road users across Sierra Leone.