In response to increasing public reports of extortion and bribery at police checkpoints, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Wednesday, 15th October 2025, conducted a series of spot checks across various checkpoints in Port Loko and Kambia Districts. The exercise, which took place at Mange, Maforki, and Rogbala-Lunsar checkpoints in Port Loko District and Mile18 checkpoint in Kambia District, aimed at curbing corrupt practices and restoring public confidence.

 In her address to the police officers and other public officers, the Commission’s North-West Regional Director, Zainab Othman, emphasized the need for immediate action. “The integrity of our law enforcement agencies is paramount,” she stated. Md. Othman pointed out that corruption among police officers dwindles public trust and undermines the rule of law, adding that the officers must ensure that they serve and protect road users and the general public without resorting to corrupt practices.

She cited a viral video on social media in which a driver was seen expressing frustration over allegations of police officers soliciting bribes at checkpoints. The driver recounted that drivers were coerced into paying money to avoid fines or to secure the release of their vehicles, many claiming they felt powerless against such abuses.

"We are urging all officers to execute their duties with the highest level of integrity and professionalism. There is zero tolerance for any form of corruption," said Director Othman.

Md. Othman further warned the police officers that corruption would not be tolerated and that they would face the wrath of ACC if they get involved in bribery and extortion, or any other form of corruption.
The Regional Head also stressed that corruption at checkpoints hampers national efforts to provide necessary security and a safe environment for the citizenry.

During the exercise at Mange Checkpoint, Inspector Alimamy Israel Kamara thanked the ACC team for engaging the personnel, stating that their duty as law enforcement officers is to protect citizens and facilitate their passage safely and not to do anything outside the law. He added that he had been reinforcing the culture of professionalism among his colleagues and promised to abide by the ACC laws.

Similarly, Sergeant Mohamed Kamara, who oversees the Maforki Checkpoint, underscored the significance of the ACC's exercise and also pledged to support the fight against corruption. Similar sentiments were expressed by counterparts at Mile 18 and Rogbala Lunsar checkpoints.