> *Repeat offenders to forfeit their cycles
> The Anambra state joint task-force on the swift implementation of the newly introduced restrictions on the operations of tricycles(aka Keke) and commercial motor-cycles(aka okada) has swung into action all over the state.
Loading ...> The task force made up of the Police, Road Safety and the state Transport Management Authority officers has commenced the arrest and fining of offenders, especially within the Awka state capital territory.
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> Residents of Awka yesterday woke up to behold the combined team chasing and apprehending scores of those who contravene the restriction order against okada operators along the popular Nnamdi Azikiwe street and the Arthur Eze Avenue, as well as the Enugu-Onitsha Federal Highway.
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> According to the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Chuma Mbonu, all those arrested would have their cycles impounded and issued a ticket with which to pay the fine in specified banks. They collect them back once evidence of payment was tendered.
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> He also disclosed that any established repeat offender forfeits his vehicle.
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> The restricted routes in Onitsha includes Awka Road, Oguta Road, Old and New Market Roads. While Okada were restricted on these routes, they were urged to operate on other hinterland and streets.
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> Mbonu noted that the restriction was “for safety of operators, passengers, other road users and citizens”, pointing out that the rate of okada-related accidents all over the state especially along the highways were very unacceptable, hence the restriction order. Also, that the misconduct and the unruly conduct of the cycles operators were getting out of hand. They often on daily basis intimidate, molest, rob and vandalize the property of other road users especially their passengers and motorists with the use of their high numerical strength. Again, it was discovered that most criminal operations in the state were carried out with okada.
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> The Commissioner noted also that Anambra remain the only state in the South East zone where the cycle operate without any restrictions, until now. He said, ” they have been operating with lawless liberty. The new restriction is for their own interest, and not punishment…”
