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By Myean D Torgbean | Monrovia

The Supreme Motorcycle Transport Union of Liberia (SUMTUL) has condemned in the strongest terms the recent mob violence that led to the death of an alleged motorcycle thief, describing the act as “barbaric and unacceptable.”

In a strongly worded statement issued in Monrovia, SUMTUL National President, Trokon “Yellow Machine” Gray, expressed disappointment over the incident, while at the same time calling on the Liberia National Police (LNP) to conduct a “speedy, impartial, and transparent investigation” to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“We condemn the acts of violence displayed by a few motorcyclists and community dwellers against an alleged bike thief,” Gray said. “But we also caution those involved in stealing and using motorcycles to commit crimes. Such actions are damaging the hard-earned reputation of honest riders who are struggling daily to feed their families.”

Gray lamented that the continuous stigmatization of motorcyclists as criminals has made their work increasingly difficult, noting that the “unprofessional conduct” of some police officers has worsened the situation.

“Liberians no longer trust the police or the legal system because they believe justice is for sale,” he said. “This lack of trust is dangerous for our country.”

According to Gray, the police’s “No-Go-Zone” restrictions have become a major source of tension between officers and commercial riders. He accused police authorities, including Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman, of authorizing excessive force against motorcyclists.

“Mr. Coleman needs to readjust his leadership style. The Gregory we knew during the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf era is different from what we see now. Instead of protecting citizens, the police are brutalizing us,” he stated.

The SUMTUL President also criticized the government for what he called “systemic neglect” of the youth and the failure to create jobs. He said many of those now riding motorcycles are educated young people who have turned to commercial biking as a means of survival.

“If President Boakai had brought the many companies he promised during the 2023 campaign, most of us would not be riding bikes today. We are only trying to make an honest living,” Gray emphasized.

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