Drivers use secret signals to outwit law enforcers

Unlicensed pedicab drivers have caught local law enforcement officers flat-footed after they started using walkie-talkies to warn each other of any approaching dangers.　

"Recently we discovered a strange phenomenon. The pedicabs are still on the streets, but we can't find them in their usual hangouts. When we try to get them, they disappear like they know we're coming," said Hu Xiangrong, director of the city administration and law enforcement's Dahongmen branch in Fengtai district.　

When a chengguan (urban management officer) finally caught an unlicensed driver, they discovered he had a walkie-talkie.

"They use them to inform each other when they spot us, and tell other nearby drivers to escape," said Hu.

A 42-year-old pedicab driver, surnamed Zhang, confirmed the use of walkie-talkies is now common practice.

"Walkie-talkies make it easier for us to dodge the chengguan. I bought one for 100 yuan ($16) and it's really worth it, because if I'm caught [driving], I'd have to pay a 1,000-yuan fine," said Zhang, who comes from Shangqiu, Henan Province.

Zhang said his monthly income is around 3,000 yuan, so taking one third of the money away is unacceptable, and his vehicle will be impounded for two weeks.

"I paid 4,500 yuan for my vehicle, it's my property, and I don't want them to take it away," said Zhang.

A resident who lives in Jianwai Soho in Chaoyang district, surnamed Zhao, said he believes the government should provide more public transportation rather than banish the pedicabs.

"I used to take a pedicab home, but I don't like them as they're dangerous and uncomfortable. But people still need them, because the city still lacks transportation choices, especially between local transport hubs and residential compounds," he said.

Currently Hu's team has confiscated walkie-talkies and vehicles from three drivers. Although the vehicles will be returned, the walkie-talkies will be sent to the Beijing Radio Administration Bureau, said Hu.　

"These drivers using walkie-talkies have violated the radio management regulations, so before the bureau makes a decision, these walkie-talkies will not be returned," Hu said.