By SANCHESKA BROWN

Tribune Staff Reporter

sbrown@tribunemedia.net

POLICE seized 26 stolen motorcycles Sunday afternoon during a “major operation” designed to “deter and disrupt the biking nuisance” in New Providence, according to Superintendent Stephen Dean.

According to Supt Dean, the operation was in response to a number of complaints from residents regarding the noise and nuisance created by large groups of people riding motorcycles, particularly on Sunday evenings.

“This was because of the public, they complained about these persons and we listened.

“So a team, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Stephen Seymour went in the area of the Container Port Terminal off Gladstone Road. When they got there they met hundreds of persons being entertained by a large number of bikers,” he said.

“When these persons saw police coming, a lot of them fled on foot into nearby bushes. Police were still, however, able to seize 26 motorcycles suspected of being stolen.

“In addition, 29 bikers were cited for various traffic violations, mostly for driving without helmets, no insurance or the motorcycle not being licensed.

“We want to reassure members of the public that road safety and the protection of the community are a high priority.

“Those bikers that ride illegal and unregistered motorbikes can expect to be put before the courts or have their motorbikes taken away. Dangerous, careless and anti-social driving will not be tolerated.

“Anyone who may have information on those believed to be driving illegally or carelessly is urged to contact police.”

Supt Dean is also encouraging anyone who may have had a motorcycle stolen in the past few months to contact the Central Detective Unit at 502-9991.

Shooting

Meanwhile, police are also asking for the public’s help in solving a shooting incident that has left a man in hospital.

According to reports shortly after 10pm on Sunday, the victim was standing in front of his residence on Bell Snow and Turtle Drive, when the occupants of a grey Honda Accord shot him in his right leg and sped off.

The victim was taken to hospital, where his condition is listed as stable.

Investigations are continuing.