Motoconcho riders call for national day of action

The National Federation of motoconchos (Fenamoto) called for all motoconcho riders nationwide to take to the streets on Monday in protest against the actions of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (AMET).

AMET has recently begun an intense campaign of  stopping motoconchos and fining for lack of documents or safety helmets. Bikes are being impounded pending payment of the fine and because of this, Union President, Oscar Almanzar, said many owners have had to pawn their household appliances to pay the fines. However when they go to collect their machines, they discover their bikes have disappeared or have parts missing.

Almanzar claims Amet are making millions of pesos from their activities.
Bikers say they feel that the government plans to eliminate the motoconcho "taxi service" altogether and accuse the director of the National Bus Service (OMSA), Ignacio Ditr�n, of instigating the actions of Amet.
At least six motorists have been injured in scuffles with police as protesters gather in the streets, burning tires and blocking traffic.

A source from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority reported that the operations will continue throughout the country.
The agency said that they are only acting to protect the lives of riders who fail to wear safety helmets in violation of Article 135 of Law 241. The fines imposed by Amet officers have risen to as much as RD$1,600 instead of the $530 typically levied earlier this year.

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