By: Kruah Thompson
Monrovia, Liberia – March 7, 2025 – Authorities at the Liberia National Police (LNP) have announced that they will continue enforcing the No-Go Zone restrictions on commercial motorbikes until a full assessment of security risks in the affected areas is completed.
The restricted areas include the stretch from ELWA Junction to Boulevard to Monrovia, as well as from Freeport through Logan Town, Clara Town, and Central Monrovia.
On March 3, 2025, members of the Motorcycle Union of Liberia took to the streets in protest, urging the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the government to lift the recently imposed temporary restrictions on commercial motorbikes in key areas of Monrovia.
The restrictions were introduced following a tragic incident on February 19, when a vehicle suffered mechanical failure while descending Crown Hill and collided with a motorbike, claiming the life of motorcyclist Emmanuel Trokon Pajibo.
However, the police say the decision to maintain the restriction is based on security concerns and the need to protect public safety.
For this reason, they will assess the level of vulnerability in these areas before deciding whether to lift or extend the restrictions. “Until such a decision is made, the current restrictions will remain in effect,” police say.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) press briefing on Thursday, March 6, 2025, Deputy Information Minister for Press and Public Affairs, Daniel O. Sanoe, stated that the police are actively working with the Motorcyclist Union President to address concerns affecting commercial motorcyclists, including the release of impounded motorbikes.
“This effort demonstrates the police’s commitment to collaborating with motorcyclists and ensuring their safety and welfare,” Sanoe said.
He clarified that the No-Go Zone restriction is not intended to indiscriminately target motorcyclists or deprive them of their livelihood but rather to enhance public safety and national security.
“The measure has been implemented in the best interest of the nation, aiming to ensure law and order while safeguarding the well-being of all citizens,” he added.
Sanoe also cautioned the public against using motorbikes in the restricted areas, assuring that the LNP is committed to restoring law and order while protecting lives and property.
Additionally, he announced that the LNP has started issuing access passes for businesses, NGOs, and other non-commercial motorbike users affected by the restrictions. These passes aim to minimize disruptions caused by the enforcement of the No-Go Zone policy.-Edited by Othello B. Garblah.
