The Joint Task Force of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) took decisive action on Thursday as they crushed over 470 motorcycles that were impounded for operating illegally in Abuja.
These motorcycles were seized during a comprehensive operation that targeted various areas including Carwash Bus Stop, Lugbe, Gosa, Bill Clinton Drive, Trademore Estate, Lugbe Junction, and Kubwa.
This is not the first time such an operation has taken place, as over 400 motorcycles were previously confiscated and crushed on August 31st for the same offence.
Addressing the media during the exercise, Mr. Obokutom Nyah, Secretary of the Transportation Secretariat, FCTA, emphasized that the decision to crush the motorcycles was done in accordance with the law.
Furthermore, Nyah cautioned commercial motorcyclists to strictly limit their operations to designated areas and refrain from operating in the city center, as it poses a security threat.
He clarified that designated areas have been allocated for different types of vehicles, with commercial motorcycles only allowed to operate in the suburbs.
“We encourage operators to respect their boundaries because if they cross the line, they will face the full force of the law,” he warned.
Additionally, Mr. Abdulateef Bello, the Director of the FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Services, expressed concern over the alarming number of motorcycles operating within the city.
Bello stated that the task force would extend its operations into the night hours, highlighting that currently, between 200 and 400 motorcycles are impounded on a weekly basis.
He further added that the task force is considering apprehending residents who patronize motorcycles to enhance enforcement measures.
While advising residents against patronizing motorcycles, Bello urged them to consider walking short distances wherever possible for their own safety.
Moreover, he cautioned individuals considering investing in the commercial motorcycle business to reconsider and stressed that the FCTA will employ its resources to curtail their operations. (NAN)
