The Kano State Police Command has issued a strong warning against the growing practice of roller skating on major highways, bridges, road construction sites and other restricted areas across Kano metropolis, describing the trend as a serious threat to public safety.
The warning was contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori.
According to the command, it has observed with concern an increasing number of juveniles engaging in roller skating on busy roads and, in some cases, holding onto moving vehicles to gain speed and excitement.
The police noted that while roller skating is a legitimate recreational activity, carrying it out on highways and other high-risk locations exposes skaters and motorists to avoidable dangers.
The command identified several risks associated with the practice, including exposure to high-speed traffic, the absence of dedicated skating lanes on most roads and bridges, and reckless behaviour such as latching onto moving vehicles.
It warned that roller skates provide limited control and braking capability, making collisions with vehicles highly likely, especially on roads designed primarily for vehicular movement.
The police also expressed concern over the involvement of young people in the activity, stating that the dangerous practice of holding onto moving vehicles for sport or pleasure could result in fatal accidents, serious injuries and possible criminal liability.
The Commissioner of Police directed all persons engaging in roller skating on highways, expressways, bridges and construction sites to desist immediately.
He further called on parents, guardians, schools and community leaders to caution children and wards against the hazardous activity and educate them on its dangers.
The command warned that anyone found obstructing traffic, endangering public safety or engaging in acts capable of causing harm to themselves or others would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Kano State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and maintaining public order and urged residents to report reckless skating activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines.
