El Valle, a district in the south-west of Caracas, is a complex area where middle-class neighborhoods coexist with precarious shantytowns. Previously plagued by crime, El Valle has seen a decrease due to police raids and economic factors. Avenida 19 de Abril is a main avenue where neighborhood leaders decide who can pass through. The streets are still a battleground between police and criminals, with many young motorcycle taxi drivers offering rides and performing stunts for entertainment.
Motorcycle stunts have been declared a “national sport” by President Maduro as an attempt to engage the youth. The Bolivarian National Police now has an acrobatic squad that showcases its skills at official events. Despite risks and accidents, young people continue to practice and enjoy performing stunts.
Officer Denis Jaimes leads the Precision Unit specializing in motorcycle acrobatics and is popular among residents. The brigade teaches and promotes motorcycle stunts as a form of expression. Despite concerns about safety, enthusiasts believe proper training and support can mitigate risks and accidents.
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