Beirut Governor Marwan Abboud issued a decree banning motorcycles from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. within Beirut’s administrative area, effective February 24th. The decision was made in coordination with the Ministry of Interior to curb thefts and crimes in the capital.

The only exemptions, as listed in Article 2 of this decree, are:

Motorcycles belonging to various security agencies, public administrations, institutions, municipalities, municipal unions, independent agencies, and diplomatic missions, while performing their official duties. Also exempt are motorcycles used by private tourist companies, restaurants providing delivery services, news agencies, media, journalists, photographers, and newspaper and magazine distribution companies—whether the motorcycles are owned by the company or by individuals working for it. These drivers must carry cards proving their employment beyond 7:00 p.m., stamped with the company’s or institution’s seal and accompanied by a valid residence card for foreigners, provided that the motorcycle meets all legal requirements.

While this is a positive initiative to reduce crime, I would like to see the ISF enforce it more rigorously and actually arrest those violating the decision, especially the thugs roaming in political convoys, provoking people and disrupting the peace.

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