From Rose Ejembi, Makurdi
The Benue State Security Council has imposed a ban on public motorcycle operations in Katsina-Ala and Ukum Local Government Areas, till further notice.
The ban was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Internal Affairs and Special Services, Uyina Matthew, and made available to Daily Sun on Tuesday.
He said the decision was reached after the state security council considered the security situation in Katsina-Ala and other parts of Sankera area of the state.
‘The use of motorcycles is hereby banned,’ he said, adding that the use of public tricycles also known as “Keke” and other means of transportation apart from motorcycles will be allowed in the two Local Government Areas.
The Council also directed security operatives to arrest defaulters and impound their motorcycles. They are also mandated to dismantle all illegal revenue collection points and makeshift shops.
‘Aside the revenue collection point at the head bridge in Katsina-Ala, no other revenue point is allowed within the local government area.
‘All staff of the Board of Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) are required to wear customized jackets and identity cards.
‘Loading and offloading of vehicles at Takum Junction and Katsina-Ala head bridge has also been prohibited. In the same vein, loitering at Katsina-Ala head bridge is prohibited.’
Matthew enjoined all law-abiding residents of the affected areas to go about their normal activities without fear.
Violent attacks by unknown gunmen have rocked the area in the last few weeks with attendant deaths.