Some of the impounded scooters.
PHILIPSBURG--Police inspected 120 vehicles, stopped 24 scooters and impounded 16 motorcycles and scooters during targeted traffic enforcement operations conducted by the KPSM Flex Team on Saturday, July 11.
The operation was carried out at several locations across the island, including A.J.C Brouwer Road, Welfare Road and L.B. Scott Road, with officers focusing primarily on motorcycles and scooters because of the increasing number of riders operating their vehicles recklessly and in violation of traffic laws.
During the operation, officers also searched nine vehicles under the National Opium Ordinance and found several motorists who were not wearing seatbelts.
The inspection of 24 scooters revealed that 16 were in violation of the Traffic Ordinance. The offences included riding without a helmet, operating a motorcycle without the appropriate driver's licence for the vehicle category, failing to provide valid insurance documentation, operating a vehicle without a valid inspection certificate or road tax, and displaying missing, altered or improper number plates.
As a result of the violations, the motorcycles and scooters were impounded, and the riders were issued fines in accordance with the applicable traffic regulations.
Police also paid particular attention to riders using illegal devices attached to their mufflers that produce excessive noise, as well as those engaging in dangerous riding behaviour that puts themselves, other motorists and pedestrians at risk.
KPSM warned that reckless riding, excessive speeding, illegal vehicle modifications that create unnecessary noise and operating vehicles that do not comply with legal requirements will no longer be tolerated.
The police force said enforcement against these offences will continue and be intensified, warning that riders who ignore the law should expect to have their motorcycles or scooters stopped, fined and impounded.
KPSM reminded all motorcycle and scooter riders that they are personally responsible for ensuring both they and their vehicles comply with all legal requirements before using public roads, stressing that compliance with traffic laws is essential for the safety of all road users.
Police said traffic enforcement operations will continue across the island as part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety, reduce preventable accidents and address public concerns about reckless driving and nuisance behaviour.
KPSM also urged all road users to obey traffic laws, wear the appropriate safety equipment, respect speed limits and show consideration for other road users.
