Peru’s Costly Motorcycle Ban: A Flawed Attempt to Curb Crime Hurting Everyday Citizens

Peru’s recent decision to impose nearly $200 fines on motorcycles carrying two people aims to diminish the surge in criminal attacks perpetrated by hitmen and extortionists, especially in Lima and nearby Callao. But is this heavy-handed approach truly protecting law-abiding Peruvians, or just adding another layer of government overreach that penalizes ordinary workers? Since October, these regions have been under a declared state of emergency due to organized crime. The government’s new decree specifically targets motorcycles with two riders—a common mode of transport in Peru—and enforces steep penalties for violations: 660 soles (about $196) and 50 demerit points for first...