By CESAR JOLITO III

Authorities shut down an illegal motorcycle drag race in Bacolod City’s Barangay Granada, leading to the impounding of 13 motorcycles and the citation of at least 20 riders for traffic violations.

The Land Transportation Office in the Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) said 13 motorcycles were impounded due to document-related violations, including lack of registration and absence of valid driver’s licenses.

Operatives, led by LTO-NIR officer-in-charge Regional Director Jeck Conlu, moved in and caught several individuals actively participating in the unauthorized race.

Around 20 riders were issued citation tickets for breaching Republic Act 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

The operation was carried out at 11:30 p.m. on April 26 along the Circumferential Road, also known as the Banoce Economic Highway, through a joint effort with the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO).

The crackdown followed a tip from a confidential informant reporting recurring illegal drag races in the area during nighttime hours.

LTO-NIR said the operation forms part of an intensified campaign against illegal racing, citing the serious risks it poses to both participants and the public.

Officials stressed that such activities endanger lives and will continue to be met with strict enforcement.

The BCPO, for its part, said similar operations will be sustained following repeated complaints from residents about excessive noise and reckless driving in the area.

Authorities also urged the public to report illegal racing incidents and reminded motorists to comply with traffic laws to ensure road safety./CJ, WDJ