Maldives Police Service has fined three motorcyclists who were caught riding dangerously across the Sinamalé Bridge after a video of the incident sparked widespread concern on social media.
The footage, which circulated online, showed the riders travelling at high speed while performing reckless maneuvers that many viewed as a serious threat to public safety. Following the incident, the motorcycles were impounded for 30 days.
Initially, the lack of further action against the riders drew criticism from the public and media, prompting questions about whether the individuals would face legal consequences.
Fines Issued to All Three Riders
Police confirmed on Friday night that all three riders have now been penalized for dangerous driving.
Two of the riders were each fined MVR 2,000, while the third received a MVR 4,000 fine because it was a repeat dangerous driving offense.
According to police, the riders were found to have operated their motorcycles in a manner that endangered public safety and caused alarm among members of the public. As a result, all three motorcycles remain impounded for a period of 30 days.
Public Pressure Prompted Questions
The decision to issue fines came after significant public criticism over what many believed was a lack of enforcement.
Earlier, a police media official told reporters that no further action had been taken against the riders because the incident did not result in injuries. That explanation was met with criticism, with many arguing that dangerous driving should be addressed before it leads to serious accidents.
The subsequent penalties have been widely viewed as a response to growing public concern and media scrutiny.
Video Showed High-Speed Stunts on the Bridge
The viral video captured three motorcycles travelling toward Malé at high speed during nighttime hours on the Sinamalé Bridge.
Two of the riders could be seen lying flat across their motorcycle seats while continuing to speed along the bridge. Moments later, a third rider overtook them at an even higher speed.
Although traffic appeared relatively light, suggesting the incident occurred late at night, several other vehicles were visible on the bridge at the time, raising concerns about the potential danger posed to other road users.
Road Safety Remains a Public Concern
The incident has renewed discussion about reckless driving and road safety in the Maldives. While no injuries were reported, authorities maintain that behavior capable of endangering other road users can result in penalties, vehicle impoundment, and additional sanctions, particularly for repeat offenders.
