By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Commercial bike riders operating at Model Junction’s new road parking ground have raised serious concerns over what they describe as continuous and excessive harassment by police officers during their working hours. Speaking to Forum Newspaper on June 9, 2025, riders voiced their frustration over recent police directives that prohibit them from parking at their usual waiting spots for passengers, severely disrupting their livelihoods.
One of the riders, who preferred to remain anonymous, explained that the new law passed by the police banning them from their customary parking areas has created significant difficulties. “We are tired of being chased away every day,” the rider said. “This is where we find our customers, and now we have nowhere to wait, making it harder to work and earn a living.”
Musa Mattia, a member of the bike riders’ executive committee managing the Model Junction parking ground, expressed deep dissatisfaction with how the police are handling the situation, noting that police presence at the parking ground is relentless and causes constant disruption to the riders. “The police are always on our necks throughout the week,” Musa said. “Even those of us who have all the proper documents — licenses and insurance — still face harassment. It feels like the authorities are finding ways to exploit us no matter what.”
Musa’s concerns were echoed by Amara Thoronka, a seasoned bike rider and owner with nearly 15 years of experience in the commercial riding business. Amara warned that the worsening situation could force some riders to abandon their trade entirely. “If the Inspector General and other authorities do not intervene, some riders may quit bike riding and turn to other activities, which could be harmful to the community,” he said.
He emphasized the positive role bike riding has played in supporting young men to become responsible and productive members of society. “Bike riding has helped many young men to provide for their families and contribute to the economy,” Amara stated. “If the police continue this pressure, it could lead to chaos, which is not good for anyone in the country.”
The bike riders argue that instead of harassment, they need support and understanding from the police, especially since many of them operate legally with proper licensing and insurance. They also called on the authorities to engage them in dialogue to find a workable solution that balances law enforcement and the riders’ economic needs.
Community members and stakeholders at Model Junction have expressed concern that the ongoing conflict between the police and bike riders could escalate if not handled carefully. The current police policy restricting bike riders from their regular waiting areas has disrupted daily operations and income for hundreds of riders who rely solely on this source of livelihood.
Local residents who depend on commercial bike services have also weighed in, noting that the availability of these riders provides essential transport, especially in areas where public transport options are limited. The sudden restrictions have made it difficult for commuters to find reliable transportation, causing inconvenience and frustration.
Efforts to reach the police for comment on the new parking restrictions and their reasons for the crackdown were unsuccessful at the time of publication. However, community leaders hope that a constructive conversation between the riders and law enforcement can be initiated soon to prevent further escalation.
The commercial bike riding sector continues to be a significant part of urban transport in many cities, providing employment to thousands and easing daily commuting challenges. Balancing enforcement of traffic and parking regulations with the needs of these riders is critical to maintaining peace and economic stability.
As the situation develops, the riders at Model Junction remain hopeful that their concerns will be heard and that solutions will be found that allow them to work without fear of harassment while ensuring public safety and order.
