{Karongi District Police Commander Superintendent of Police (SP) Vita Hamza reminded commercial motorcyclists operating in the district to ensure they abide by traffic rules as means to avoid accidents.}
SP Hamza made the call during a meeting held on December 30 and brought together over 100 motorcyclists operating Karongi district.
“Motorcyclists have all the same rights and privileges as any other road user – but they should remember that such rights also come with a great sense of responsibility. You all have a duty to be extra alert and use roads carefully in respect to all road signs,” SP Hamza told motorist
He added that, “You are encouraged to always ensure that you motorcycles are in good condition. On top of that, you must be properly licensed and move with your documents whenever you are on the road.”
Motorcycles are among the major causes of accidents and motorcyclists among those involved in fatalities resulting from accidents.
With regards to alcohol consumption and drug abuse, the District Police Commander pointed out that it is impossible and deadly to drive or ride safely when you are intoxicated with drugs or alcohol.
He went on to urge them to be good partners in crime prevention by not engaging or facilitating criminals who want to exploit their services for burglary, smuggling and other crimes.
He urged them to always call police whenever they suspect that a client intends to exploit them for criminality.
Speaking about the safety of passengers, SP Hamza said, “When you carry more than one person or when you mix passengers and luggage, you are increasing the risks of a fatal accident. Sitting on a motorcycle when you are under the influence of alcohol you risk losing balance.”
“There are times when you meet traffic lights and signposts, you must not violate them and you should stop every time a police officer stops you. There is no reason why accidents should continue to claim lives and destroy properties when we have the ability to avoid them.”
Modeste Ngamije, the The head of UCTMKK, a union of commercial motorcyclists in Karongi said that there is no reason for reckless accidents to happen when they can be avoided.
“We thank the police for its efforts to ensure our individual security and that of our passengers – we commit to abide by traffic rules.”
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