By Kadiatu Sankoh
Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd AIG Morie Lengor Esq, launched a robust campaign to tackle widespread lawlessness, poor sanitation, and public safety concerns, beginning with the Central Business District (CBD) of Freetown. He acknowledged growing public frustration and commended citizens for their support, assuring them that the government is committed to lasting change.
A special task force, headed by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Sahr Y. Senesi, has already begun operations. The team includes representatives from the Sierra Leone Police, Freetown City Council, Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), and other key agencies. Their first target has been the congested CBD, where issues such as street crime, commercial bike accidents, and illegal street trading have become increasingly dangerous.
The Minister confirmed that operations are expanding to 23 additional streets, based on lists submitted by the City Council. He made it clear that having a business license does not grant anybody the right to obstruct footpaths or occupy streets.
He also highlighted a series of unsafe practices, illegal dumping of waste, roadside construction, reckless public transport behaviour, and noise pollution from nightclubs in residential neighbourhoods. These, he warned, are not just public nuisances, but serious threats that could lead to flooding, road accidents, and community instability.
The Minister stressed the need for a national mindset shift, urging Sierra Leoneans to show the same level of discipline at home as they do abroad. He called on the public to take greater responsibility for their surroundings and to support the government’s cleanup and law enforcement efforts.
To strengthen public safety response, the police emergency line (900) is now fully functional across all mobile networks, allowing citizens to report disturbances, including loud music, public disorder, and other safety concerns.
The Minister ended with a clear message: restoring order and dignity to public spaces requires the cooperation of every citizen. The new reforms are just the beginning of a long-term plan to build safer, cleaner, and more disciplined communities across Sierra Leone.