337 motorbikes seized in two weeks in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah - The official records show that the RAK police impounded 51 motorbikes mostly unregistered

The Ras Al Khaimah Police, as part of an intensive traffic campaign, impounded 337 motorbikes in two weeks for flouting traffic rules and regulations.
Col Ali Saeed Al Alkeem, director of traffic and patrols department with RAK police, said the motorbikes seized were mostly roaring by night, speeding through city streets and rocketing along thoroughfares, leaving behind deafening decibels of unnecessary noise.
"The motorbike groups are often packs of young men out to live their 'fast and furious' fantasies - they disturb the peace and annoy the community. Some other motorbikes were ridden by unlicensed youth," Col Alkeem said.
The official records show that the RAK police impounded 51 motorbikes, mostly unregistered and ridden by unlicensed young men across the emirate in a single day - March 17.
Warning, he said the intensive 'Eltizam' or 'Obligation' campaign shall continue to clamp down on this negative phenomenon. "A number of accidents have been reported recently due to motorbikes."
The RAK police have launched several campaigns to develop the road awareness in drivers and parents about the negative impact of traffic accidents and speeding, he added. "The traffic staff officers also paid visits to residential areas and gave valuable advice to the public in protecting lives of road users, curb accidents and ensure flow."
Col Alkeem said the inspections will be on all the year round, in all areas of RAK. "No vehicle shall be released before the full payment of set fines at the end of the impoundment period; and then, it will be released only upon the approval of the technical committee concerned."
 As per the federal traffic law, driving a vehicle on public roads without a number plate draws a fine of Dh1,000, along with 24 demerit black points, he warned. "This apart from 60-day impoundment of the vehicle caught in the act."
A few days ago, RAK Municipality announced that it would auction off tens of unclaimed, impounded vehicles, some of which have not been collected for one and two years. "Owners of the seized vehicles were given a grace period of only one month, following which they will lose their vehicles for ever, and can never claim them back as per the law," said Munzir bin Shukr Al Zaabi, Director-General of RAK Municipality.
 
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Ras Al Khaimah