The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority and the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority have announced strict new enforcement measures targeting container haulage operations following recent fatal road accidents involving container trucks.
In a joint press release issued on Monday 11th May 2026, the two institutions said the latest action followed growing public concern over unsafe haulage practices, including a recent tragic incident in which a fallen container vehicle reportedly caused multiple deaths.
According to the statement, the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority and the Ministry of Transport and Aviation held a high-level meeting to review safety standards in the transportation of containerized cargo across the country.
The agencies acknowledged that while regulations already exist for haulage operations, enforcement gaps and operational lapses have continued, leading to dangerous consequences on public roads.
They also cited disturbing social media videos showing container trucks operating in visibly unsafe and unroadworthy conditions, further highlighting the urgent need for immediate reforms.
As part of the new measures, trucks without valid licences, insurance, or required operational documents will be denied entry into the Port. Vehicles without visible registration number plates will also be barred from access.
Authorities further disclosed that handheld verification devices issued by the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority will now be deployed at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay gate to check licences in real time.
Container trucks with worn-out tyres, faulty locking systems or other serious safety defects will not be allowed to operate, while those found transporting improperly secured containers risk immediate impoundment and legal sanctions.
The statement added that all container trucks will undergo mandatory roadside inspections at designated checkpoints to assess tyre condition, load security and overall roadworthiness.
In addition, haulage vehicles will be restricted to designated routes and operating hours where applicable, with violators facing penalties including suspension of operating licences.
Mobile enforcement patrols are also expected to be deployed along key haulage corridors to monitor operations and swiftly respond to unsafe practices.
The two institutions further revealed plans to jointly engage the Indigenous Transport Owners Association to ensure compliance with the new directives.
Repeat offenders, including transport companies and individual truck operators, could face tougher penalties such as blacklisting from Port access and cargo handling activities.
The authorities said the new measures are aimed at improving road safety, increasing accountability and preventing further tragedies linked to container transportation in Sierra Leone.
