The Zambia Police in Mpulungu has imposed a temporary ban on all motorbike operations in the district effective Monday, October 7, 2024.

Mpulungu Police Station Officer in Charge Clement Mubanga said the ban is aimed at helping to regulate motorcycle operations and ensuring road safety through strict measures.

Mr Mubanga warned that the Zambia police will impound all motorbikes operating as taxis from Monday, saying the government cannot continue to risk the lives of people in the district.

He said his office has since arranged for a meeting with the motorcycle riders so that they can chant a way forward and agree on the period in which they will work on regulating their businesses.

He noted with sadness that the district has been recording an increased number of unregistered bikes and accidents.

Mr Mubanga said the district recorded 51 motorbike accidents adding that all the accidents are suspected to be the result of most motorcyclists not following traffic rules.

Speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) yesterday, Mr. Mubanga revealed that out of the 51 accidents, 15 have been fatal, resulting in the loss of lives.

He explained that there have been slight injuries, stating that only 23 accidents were officially reported while a lot more had not been reported.

And some Mpulungu residents have commended the police for taking a step in regulating the motorcycle operations.

Beauty Mwila, who is a motorcycle accident victim, said the coming of motorcycle operations has brought cheaper transport in the district, but that riders need to observe traffic rules.

Ms. Mwila said most of the victims of the accidents have not only been those using the motorbikes but also innocent pedestrians, as most of the riders lack patience on the road.

And when reached for a comment, most motorcycle riders refused to comment but expressed optimism that the meeting between the riders and police will yield positive results that will benefit both the riders and residents.