LTA seizes 18 PMDs, 2 e-bikes in islandwide operation against errant retailers

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has seized 18 personal mobility devices (PMDs) and two power-assisted bicycles (PABs) following an islandwide sting operation on retailers of such devices.

In a news release on Tuesday (14 August), the LTA said its operation – which took place from 17 July to 2 August – targeted errant retailers with the intention of tackling the issue of non-compliant PMDs and PABs upstream.

The LTA said that five retailers had been found either displaying or advertising non-complaint devices.

Non-compliant PMDs are those that exceed 20kg in unladen weight, 70cm in width and 25kmh in maximum speed if motorised, while non-compliant PABs are those that do not fulfil the PAB technical requirements. Under the Active Mobility Act and Road Traffic Act, only compliant PABs and PABs can be used on public paths and roads here.

Five retailers were also caught for failing to display the LTA’s prescribed warning notice, which states the technical criteria for various devices and the locations where they are allowed to be used. Those found guilty of either of the above offences can be jailed up to three months, fined up to $1,000 or both.

It is also an offence to sell non-compliant devices or to modify them for users into a non-compliant state and those convicted face up to three months’ jail, a maximum fine of $5,000, or both.

“Members of the public are also advised to exercise caution and ensure they only purchase compliant devices if they wish to use the devices on public paths or roads,” said the LTA.

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