Police Inspector General Chris Massaquoi says the police will be left with no alternative, but to take stringent measures against motor cycle operators caught in violation of the “No Go Zone” restriction imposed by the police since November 6, 2012.
The Police Chief said repeated violation of the restriction by motorcyclists would no longer be tolerated. Hence, he has warned owners of motorcycles to advice their riders to desist from violating the ban, adding that drastic measures would be taken against violators including confiscation of bikes and subsequent prosecution.
The ban prohibits commercial motorcyclists from plying certain streets in Monrovia and its environs, including Tubman Boulevard, Central Monrovia, the Somalia Drive, and from Bong Mines Bridge on the Bushrod Island to Central Monrovia.
According to the police, the restriction was necessary as part of measures to curb increasing motorcycle accidents in and around the capital often resulting fatal injury or death. Police have also accused motorcyclists of facilitating the commission of violent crimes in Monrovia including armed robbery.
In a related development, authorities of the Liberia National Police say the bustling commercial district of Paynesville remains closed to motorcyclists pending completion into investigation of the April 16 violent clashes involving police troops and commercial bikers in area. The violence witnessed the destruction of police stations and deports in the city.