By Mackie M. Jalloh
The Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) has officially responded to recent social media claims by Lawyer Yada Hashim Williams Esq., who alleged that a Road Safety Corps Officer demanded a bribe of Two Hundred and Fifty Leones (NLE 250) during a routine traffic stop on Wilkinson Road, Cockill, Freetown, on Monday, 3rd November 2025. In a statement released on 11th November 2025, the Authority clarified that the traffic stop was conducted lawfully following the discovery that Mr. Williams’s driver was operating an unregistered vehicle, a violation of Section 3(1) of the Road Traffic Act, 2007.
According to SLRSA, the claim of bribery is unsubstantiated. The Authority noted that, immediately after the allegation surfaced on social media, they reached out to Mr. Williams to provide evidence supporting his claim. No evidence has been submitted to date, the SLRSA emphasized. In contrast, the Authority has already furnished proof that the fine levied on the unregistered vehicle was duly paid, reinforcing that the enforcement was legitimate and in accordance with the law.
The SLRSA stressed that integrity, accountability, and professionalism remain central to its operations. The Authority reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on corruption and highlighted that it maintains robust internal mechanisms to investigate any credible allegation of misconduct by personnel. However, it cautioned that unverified claims made publicly can damage the reputation of the institution and undermine public trust in the officers who diligently uphold road safety across Sierra Leone.
SLRSA further expressed concern that the social media post by Mr. Williams, if left uncorrected, has the potential to mislead the public and tarnish the image of hardworking Road Safety Corps officers. In light of this, the Authority called on Mr. Williams to withdraw his unsubstantiated post and to refrain from making further allegations without proof.
The statement from SLRSA reassures the public that the Authority remains committed to enforcing traffic laws fairly, transparently, and professionally. It reiterated that all operations, including routine traffic checks, are conducted in strict compliance with the Road Traffic Act, 2007, and in the interest of public safety and order on Sierra Leone’s roads.
By defending the legitimacy of the traffic stop and the integrity of its officers, the SLRSA underscores its unwavering dedication to road safety, accountability, and public trust. The Authority emphasized that protecting citizens and ensuring compliance with road regulations are paramount, and that any credible reports of misconduct will continue to be investigated thoroughly.
SLRSA’s public clarification serves as a firm reminder that lawful enforcement is not bribery, and that the institution remains a cornerstone of safe, transparent, and professional road management in Sierra Leone.
