Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has released a comprehensive set of regulations for the upcoming festive season, mandating strict curfews on noise and vehicle movement, while outright banning fireworks and unauthorized street gatherings.
In a public notice issued this month, the police outlined measures to ensure peace and security during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Key among them is a strict 10:00 p.m. curfew on loud music and noise, enforceable under the Public Order Act of 1965.
The notice explicitly prohibits the firing of guns, rockets, or any fireworks throughout the country. It also bans all street processions, carnivals, and religious street marches without written permission from the Inspector General of Police. Mask devils and masquerades similarly require prior police clearance.
Significant traffic restrictions have been announced. Driving under the influence of alcohol or in unregistered vehicles is prohibited. Furthermore, all vehicles bearing G-Plates or Temporary Vehicle Registration (TVR) are barred from roads after 6:00 p.m. The notice reiterates that commercial motorbikes, known as “Okadas,” are not permitted to operate within Freetown’s Central Business District.
Key points from the notice
• No loud music or noise after 10.00 p.m.
• No street processions or carnivals without written approval from the Inspector General of Police.
• No firing of guns, rockets or fireworks.
• Fireworks are banned nationwide.
• No driving under the influence of alcohol.
• No driving of unregistered vehicles.
• Vehicles with G plates or temporary registration must not operate after 6.00 p.m.
• Vehicles must be used only for their approved purpose.
• Okada operations are banned in the Central Business District of #Freetown.
• Mask devils and masquerades must have police clearance.
• Religious groups need written permission for street processions.
To manage holiday crowds, the SLP will designate parking at Lumley and Aberdeen beaches and will deploy towing vehicles for strict enforcement of traffic and parking rules.
The regulations combine longstanding laws, such as the Public Order Act (1965) and the Road Traffic Act (2007), with specific seasonal directives. The police emphasized that these rules will be rigorously enforced to guarantee public safety.
The notice concluded with seasonal greetings from the Inspector General and the Sierra Leone Police, wishing citizens a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2026.
The measures represent a firm stance by authorities to preempt disorder during a period typically marked by widespread celebration and public gatherings.
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