Authorities on the Copperbelt have raised concern over the growing number of unregistered motorcycles operating across towns in the province, warning that the trend poses serious security and public safety risks.
Copperbelt Police Commanding Officer Mwala Yuyi told the media that many of the motorcycles are being brought in from outside the country and are operating without proper documentation.
Yuyi said while motorcycles provide livelihood opportunities for many people, their unregulated growth has created compliance and safety challenges.
“Sneaking in or operating with an illegal vehicle or motorcycle is a serious offence,” Yuyi warned.
He explained that once law enforcement officers impound an unregistered motorcycle, the owner is taken to court and given up to 90 days to produce the required documents. Failure to do so results in the motorcycle being disposed of in accordance with the law.
The police chief added that authorities have continued to encourage motorcycle operators to register their bikes to make it easier to handle matters such as accidents and ownership disputes.
Yuyi noted that it becomes difficult to investigate accidents when motorcycles are not registered in anyone’s name, making it challenging to establish responsibility.
He further pointed out that compensating accident victims also becomes complicated under such circumstances, describing the situation as unfortunate.
The commanding officer urged individuals engaged in the motorcycle transport business to comply with the law to avoid facing legal consequences.
Yawwwwwn why motorcycles? Aren’t they vehicles like all other registrable stuff? If it were bicycles I would understand police concerns