The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) today crushed 601 motorcycles impounded over traffic violations in Abuja, in a move authorities say is rooted in existing regulations and aimed at enhancing public safety.
The enforcement exercise, carried out by the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), was held in Abuja and attended by key government and security officials, reports NAN.
Speaking during the event, the Mandate Secretary for Transport, Dr. Elechi Chinedum, said the administration was acting in line with FCT regulations, particularly the law enacted on January 1, 2023, under the previous administration of former FCT Minister, Mohammed Bello.
“This is not just about aesthetics anymore it’s about safety and security. The law prohibits motorcycles in certain areas, and our responsibility is to enforce that law,” Chinedum stated.
He noted that motorcycles are increasingly being linked to criminal activities in the capital, prompting the FCTA to intensify enforcement. “People must stop taking chances. If you bring a motorcycle into a prohibited area, it will be impounded and crushed,” he warned.
Chinedum also appealed to the media to report the efforts of DRTS fairly, saying: “This directorate plays a crucial role in law enforcement and public safety. Our actions are not punitive, they are legal and necessary.”
Corroborating this, the Director of DRTS, Dr. Abdulateef Bello, said the exercise is part of routine enforcement efforts to uphold the 2006 ban on commercial motorcycles within the city center.
“Today’s operation marks our first crushing exercise of the year, involving 601 motorcycles. We’re sending a clear message: motorcycles used in restricted areas will be confiscated and destroyed, especially those already forfeited by court orders,” he said.
Bello emphasised that beyond traffic concerns, motorcycles have become tools for facilitating crime and should be curbed.
Also speaking, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Operations, FCT Command, Mode Magawata, said the enforcement is backed by the FCT Minister and is vital to curbing criminality.
“We can’t fold our arms. These motorcycles are being used by criminals armed robbers, kidnappers. That’s why the minister has directed that they must not be allowed within restricted areas, and we have the manpower to enforce this,” Magawata asserted.
The FCTA reiterated that while it is not targeting individuals who own motorcycles for personal use, it will continue to seize and destroy those found operating illegally within restricted zones in the Federal Capital Territory.
