Oct 13, 2008 (DVB), Local authorities in northern Shan state’s Nam Kham township have seized over 100 unregistered motorbikes owned by villagers from the surrounding areas, Nan Kham residents said.

One resident of Nam Kham said the villagers were told their motorcycles would not be returned unless they had them registered.

"Over 100 motorbikes owned by local villagers were seized by the authorities when the villagers came to town to buy goods from the weekly Friday market," the resident said.

"Normally when that happens, the authorities just fine them and then give their motorbikes back."

"But this time, they demanded a fine of 5000 kyat from each motorbike owner but then said they would only give their motorbikes back only after the owners have them registered."

Reporting by Htet Aung Kyaw