Tensions are running high on the streets of Conakry these days, as motorbike taxi drivers and police officers engage in a cat-and-mouse game.
Two-wheeled taxis are required for anybody wishing to bypass the severe traffic jams in the West African capital.
In response to demand, many young men have used their savings or borrowed extensively to purchase a motorcycle and ply their profession unofficially.
However, authorities claim the rapidly expanding, unlawful, and chaotic enterprise presents a danger to road safety and have initiated a crackdown.
They have prohibited any motorcycle taxis from entering Kaloum — the most lucrative area, which is home to ministries and other government facilities.
The order, which took effect on May 5, punishes violators with penalties and potentially the seizure of the motorcycle itself.
Since then, motorcycle taxi drivers and police officers have been attempting to outwit one another – two-wheel drivers dash into Kaloum, pick up a passenger, and race away without being caught.
Occasionally, things go violent when Conakry’s police, who have a reputation for violence, grab and handcuff reluctant motorists.
Last month, an AFP reporter saw a lengthy queue of young men outside the traffic police station, waiting to retrieve their motorcycle after paying a fine of 200,000 Guinean francs ($20.4) – a hefty figure in one of the world’s poorest nations.
“It’s forbidden, but we don’t have a job, it’s the only thing we can do,” said motorcycle taxi driver Mamadou Bachir Diallo.
“If you don’t see kids hanging out in the neighbourhoods making tea, it’s because of the motorcycles. We get by with this. And that’s why it’s unfair, there are policemen here who have motorcycle taxis in town, their little ones ride here every day and no-one stops them.”
On average, driving a motorcycle taxi earns between 100,000 and 125,000 francs a month.
