We asked a local chap to run us down to a nearby cafe, and he obliged us for a fee of less than a dollar. Unfortunately the police caught him for not having a 'taxi' license, put him in gaol, and confiscated his trike. The hotel said he will stay there until he can find the costs to release himself and the bike, but it could take his family a long time to do so.
We've dealt with the police officer, the commander/commandant, surete nationale (the gaol), and an insurance company; and have walked the entirety of Dakhla in the process. James' command of French has been invaluable in sifting through the officialese involved.
The total amount involved is about $30, but trying to get it all done and still keep to our schedule has been a real challenge. Everything is friendly and considerate, just slow and bureaucratic. We will stay one more day in Dakhla to try and get him and the bike released, but will then need to move on regardless.
It's probably just as well, because we have needed the extra time to effect repairs on James' bike. The morning inspection revealed that the base of his back box had torn through the bolt holes and one more good bump may have sent the whole lot running down the road. A local supplier of aluminium stock has been located, and currently cutting and shaping a 5mm plate to brace the entire base of the box. That should resolve the problem once and for all.
The small hotel is comfortable enough, has a hot shower and wifi - so there's not much else we can ask for. Just settle in for a day or rest and recovery.
