Over 1300 commercial motorcyclists operating in Rubavu District have been urged to ensure they abide by traffic rules at all times to avoid accidents largely caused by their recklessness and breach of road safety standards.
Inspector of Police (IP) Solange Nyiraneza, the District Community Liaison Officer of Rubavu made the call on March 24 during a meeting with the motorcyclists organised under UCOTMRU cooperative, held in Gisenyi Sector.
“You must know that accidents are not selective, anyone can be a victim but what is important is to ensure that you avoid Violation of traffic rules,” said IP Nyiraneza
She went on to ask them to set internal guidelines to also penalise their defiant colleagues.
“When you are transporting a passenger, you are holding their lives in your hands. They expect you to take them safely where they are expected. Back home, there are dependants, parents and even friends that are looking forward for their safe return including you,” she added.
The DCLO outline speeding, recklessness, bad maneuvers and overloading as some of the causes of accidents.
“Besides accidents, we have arrested some motorcyclists either carrying people trafficking drugs or themselves carrying drugs. This is something we need to fight together to stop it. You shouldn’t let such people be part of your profession; whenever you encounter one, notify the police immediately” said IP Nyiraneza
The representative of UCOTMRU, Emmanuel Rwamucyo said that following the knowledge acquired from the police, commercial motorcyclists have recommitted to abiding by traffic rules and also be part of community policing programme.
“There are some of our colleagues that have indeed disregard the law and we have decided not to stand by, instead to cooperate with security organs and stop them,” said Rwamucyo.
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