Harare, (New Ziana) – Police have raised alarm over a sharp increase in traffic violations involving motorcycles, warning that the growing disregard for road regulations was putting lives at serious risk.
In a statement, national police spokesperson, Paul Nyathi said police had noted a surge in the use of motorcycles across the country, with many riders operating unregistered bikes, riding without protective helmets and, in some cases, allowing more than one passenger on a single motorcycle.
He said traffic officers had noted also noted other worrying behaviour among some motorcyclists, such as failure to obey road signs and signals, reckless and dangerous riding, excessive speeding, improper overtaking, riding against the flow of traffic and weaving through moving vehicles.
“These actions pose a serious threat not only to the riders themselves, but also to pedestrians and other road users,” he said.
The police reminded motorcyclists that the law is clear and mandatory.
According to the Road Traffic Act [Chapter 13:11] and its associated regulations, both the rider and any passenger are required to wear approved protective helmets at all times, regardless of whether they are operating in rural, farming, peri-urban or urban areas.
Nyathi further emphasized that riding a motorcycle on a learner’s licence or any driver’s licence other than Category A is illegal. He added that helmets must be clearly inscribed with a red letter “L” at the back, alongside the prescribed L-plates attached to the motorcycle.
“The law permits a motorcycle to carry only one passenger, who must be properly seated and wearing a protective helmet,” he said.
He also stressed that all motorcycles must be properly registered and licensed, warning that failure to comply with these requirements constitute a traffic offence and attracts penalties in terms of the law.
In response to the growing concerns, the police said they will intensify traffic enforcement operations nationwide to curb lawlessness and promote road safety.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will continue to work closely with motorists and all road users to ensure adherence to traffic rules and regulations,” Nyathi said, urging riders to cooperate with law enforcement officers and to prioritize safety at all times.
New Ziana
