City cops crack down on illegal bike racing gangs, seize 15 motorcycles

Visakhapatnam city police conducted a two-day special enforcement drive on May 2 and 3 after receiving repeated complaints from residents and commuters about illegal bike racing. During the operation, police seized 15 high-end motorcycles and detained several youths from key areas across the city.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) K. Praveen Kumar led the operation under the supervision of Commissioner of Police Shankabratha Bagchi. Police targeted known racing hotspots, including Beach Road, BRTS corridors, Telugu Thalli Flyover, and Siripuram.

Police stated that the racing gangs mainly consist of young riders who use heavily modified motorcycles with loud silencers. Their activities have been disturbing public peace, especially at night. Investigators also found that these groups coordinate through private social media channels and share stunt videos to attract more participants.

During the drive, officers identified several illegally modified vehicles and seized them immediately. Police will produce the accused in court.

K. Praveen Kumar said the racers endanger public safety by speeding through crowded areas without concern for pedestrians or other road users. He emphasized that such actions violate traffic laws and put lives at risk. He also urged parents to guide their children away from such behavior.

Police stated that they will continue the enforcement drive and take strict action, including imposing heavy fines, seizing vehicles, and filing criminal cases against offenders. They urged the public to report illegal racing activities to the nearest police station.

Officials also said that they are expanding CCTV surveillance across the city to help prevent and detect illegal racing. Police warned that anyone involved in such activities will face strict legal consequences.