The FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) says it has impounded over 300 motorcycles and 251 tricycles for violating traffic rules and regulations.

While briefing journalists, the service director, Abdul-Lateef Bello, said the operation was to ensure seamless traffic flow in the territory.

“All the vehicles you see here were impounded based on traffic violations, most especially route violations,“ he said.

Mr Bello explained that the service had had a series of engagements with officials of the cyclists’ unions on the need to implore their members to operate in areas officially designated for them.

The director said apart from violating the route plan, many rickety vehicles that were not roadworthy and constituting a nuisance on the city roads were apprehended.

“In spite of several understandings that we have reached that vehicles should be made to undergo inspection at our various inspection sites within the territory, some are still in violation.

“There are still some recalcitrant operators who still bring in very rickety vehicles, thereby hindering the free flow of traffic,“ Mr Bello said.

He reminded commercial cycle operators that they were banned from operating in Abuja city centre.

Mr Bello warned that the DRTS would continue to descend heavily on them for refusing to abide by the simple route plan already agreed upon.

“So, right now, we will subject them to mobile court for a penalty.

“We are even thinking whether we should start crushing tricycles the way we have been doing to motorbikes since they have refused to abide by simple instructions.“

The director said punitive action would be taken against violators, emphasising that “the era of forgiveness and negotiations are over”.

“Henceforth, we will be treating them in the language we feel they understand.

“About two weeks ago, we had our last crushing of motorbikes, and this week, we should be doing some level of crushing if a forfeiture order is granted to us.“

The director promised that the service would continue to ensure the FCT was safe and devoid of pollution.

In his remarks, the secretary of the FCTA transport secretariat, Muhammed Candido, said they would not condone any attempt to distort the city plan.

(NAN)