On Thursday, the Joint Task Force of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) crushed more than 470 motorcycles impounded for operating illegally in Abuja.

The task force impounded the motorcycles during an operation from the Carwash Bus Stop, Lugbe, through Gosa, Bill Clinton Drive, Trademore Estate, Lugbe Junction and Kubwa.

Over 400 motorcycles were earlier impounded and crushed on August 31 during a similar operation for the same offence.

Obokutom Nyah, FCTA secretary (transportation secretariat) told journalists during the exercise that the decision to crush the motorcycles was in line with the provisions of the law.

Mr Nyah warned commercial motorcyclists to limit their operations to designated areas, stay clear of the city centre and stop constituting a security threat.

He explained that areas are designated for different kinds of vehicles, adding that commercial motorcycles are only allowed to operate in the suburbs.

“So, we encourage the operators to respect their boundaries because if you cross the line, you will face the full wrath of the law,” he said.

Also, Abdulateef Bello, the FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Services director, said the number of motorcycles operating within the city was outrageous.

Mr Bello said the task force would extend its operations to night hours, adding that currently, between 200 and 400 motorcycles are being impounded every week.

He added that the task force was considering arresting residents who patronise motorcycles as part of efforts to strengthen the level of enforcement.

He advised residents against patronising motorcycles but should learn to walk short distances for their safety.

The director further advised people investing in the commercial motorcycle business to rethink, stressing that the FCTA would invest its resources to curtail them. 

(NAN)