By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone has donated 15 Lifan motorbikes and other operational equipment to the Office of National Security (ONS) in a move aimed at strengthening security operations, improving emergency response, and enhancing access to remote communities across the country.
The handover ceremony took place at the ONS headquarters on OAU Drive, Tower Hill, where government officials and representatives of the Chinese Embassy described the donation as a significant contribution to Sierra Leone’s national security architecture.
Speaking during the ceremony, National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker said the motorbikes would be deployed to district and provincial ONS offices experiencing serious transportation challenges.
He noted that the intervention is intended to improve operational effectiveness by enabling security personnel to respond more quickly to incidents, conduct regular patrols, and reach communities that are difficult to access due to poor road conditions.
“The motorbikes are meant for operations, not ceremonies,” Caulker emphasized, adding that improved mobility will enhance the ONS’s ability to engage communities, coordinate with local authorities, gather timely intelligence, and respond swiftly to emergencies.
Deputy National Security Coordinator Dr. Ahmed Sannoh described the donation as another milestone in the long-standing partnership between Sierra Leone and China. He recalled that in December 2025, the Chinese Embassy supported the ONS with a 275 KVA generator, tablets, printers, and folding chairs to improve operational efficiency.
According to Dr. Sannoh, the latest donation demonstrates China’s continued commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s security institutions through practical assistance that directly addresses operational needs.
ONS officials disclosed that the distribution of the motorbikes will commence immediately, with priority given to districts experiencing the greatest mobility constraints. However, they stressed that maximizing the benefits of the donation will require proper maintenance systems, reliable fuel supply, rider training, and secure storage facilities
They further highlighted the importance of establishing sustainable maintenance and replacement plans to ensure the equipment remains operational for years to come.
Chinese Ambassador Zhao Yong reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s peace and security efforts, describing the donation as part of the strong bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 8th July 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
