CAIRO - More than 100 unlicensed motorcycles have been seized in Cairo's Ramses Square in a crackdown on traffic violators, outlaws and street vendors, a police general said on Tuesday. "The police pushed on with their crackdown on crime rings in the Square, arresting dozens of fugitives, suspects and sellers of banned items," General A. el-Iraqi of Cairo Security Directorate told The Egyptian Gazette. Gen. el-Iraqi added that the Traffic Police seized more than 100 unlicensed motorcycles and arrested their drivers, who were referred to Cairo prosecutors for interrogation. "The crackdown is part of a major sweep launched following orders by the Interior Minister, Major General Mohamed Ibrahim Youssef, who wanted the police to continue with their raids against law breakers. The Square has gained a reputation as a fertile region ruled by outlaws since January 25. Another police brigadier, who did not want to be identified, said the police had confiscated large quantities of knives and counterfeit goods since they launched the operation in the Square. Passersby in the Square have expressed their full satisfaction with yesterday's police action, which started earlier in the day. They also welcomed the police return to the Square to deal with rising crime and demanded them restore security to all streets. Minister Youssef has pledged that the police will make a gradual but firm return to the street to combat thugs and criminals. He has vowed to work to rebuild confidence in the police.
