Experts call for stronger police response to dangerous motorcycle driving

Nicosia, Cyprus. Police have been urged to strengthen their response to dangerous driving by young motorcyclists, with calls for increased enforcement and more officers on the streets.

The issue was discussed on Tuesday during a Sigma TV programme featuring Isotita union president Nikos Loizides and transport specialist Loukas Demetriou.

Police pursuit rules

Loizides said police regulations define specific circumstances in which officers may pursue a vehicle, including stolen or wanted vehicles, drivers fleeing a crime scene, vehicles with false registration plates and motorists who fail to stop when instructed.

He said officers must also apply the principle of proportionality and assess potential risks to the suspect, police officers and the public before deciding whether to begin or continue a pursuit.

Loizides said the issue was particularly acute in cases involving motorcycles without registration plates.

Proposed measures

Isotita has proposed legislative changes under which seized motorcycles would not be returned to their owners until court proceedings have concluded.

The union has also proposed examining the cancellation of vehicle registration.

Loizides said cameras installed in patrol cars could provide evidence of serious traffic offences and help police identify offenders without necessarily requiring a pursuit.

He said a motorcyclist passing a patrol car without a helmet or registration plates could be identified and dealt with later if officers establish the rider’s identity and link them to the vehicle.

Alternative action

Demetriou said police should consider alternative measures when a pursuit could create a greater risk of an accident or collision.