Islamabad police launched a surprise late-night crackdown on motorcyclists operating vehicles without helmets, raising concerns among residents. The directive, issued to all stations and patrols, mandates the seizure of motorcycles under Section 134 if riders are helmetless. Sources indicate impounded vehicles will only be returned after riders present a helmet, with photographs documenting the process.

The sudden implementation of this policy has sparked public outcry, with citizens questioning the timing of the order, making helmet acquisition and vehicle retrieval difficult during late hours. Community members also highlighted what they perceive as hypocrisy in the directive, questioning whether the same regulations will extend to law enforcement personnel, such as the Dolphin Force, who are often observed patrolling without helmets. They specifically asked if police officers’ motorcycles would be subjected to impoundment and photographic documentation.

Analysts characterized the directive as a challenge to the Chief Traffic Officer and the Inspector General of Islamabad Police, emphasizing the importance of equal application of the law.