Minors using electric scooters for dangerous road stunts in Nicosia

Recent social media footage has exposed a trend in Nicosia where groups of minors use electric scooters to perform dangerous stunts, such as wheelies and rapid accelerations, on major roads. These organized 'Ride Out' gatherings often take place at night, with riders frequently failing to use necessary safety equipment or reflective markers. Police report that over 7,600 out-of-court fines have been issued for various traffic violations involving these devices since the beginning of the year.

Currently, law enforcement officers are evaluating online videos to identify the individuals involved and to increase patrols in affected areas. Inspector Tasos Ashikkis of the Traffic Department explained that police are unable to seize the scooters because a pending government decree has not yet been finalized. Once approved by the Minister of Transport, the regulation will allow for the seizure of devices if they are operated by children under 17, used in restricted areas, or if they reach speeds exceeding 25 kilometers per hour.

Authorities, including police spokesperson Marina Christodoulidou, have emphasized that parents bear significant responsibility for allowing minors to access these devices. While the police continue to issue reports and fines for traffic infractions, the legal framework to confiscate the scooters remains in the administrative review stage.