By Ibironke Ariyo
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has arrested 823 drivers and confiscated 634 licences for traffic light, zebra crossing and other violations within the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) Abuja.
The FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed confirmed this in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO) Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Friday in Abuja.
Mohammed said that the Corps also administered 923 fines, impounded 189 vehicles during the special “operation Karara” activated on Sept. 2.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FRSC Corps Marshal had launched a special enforcement patrol tagged ‘Operation Karara’ to tackle the menace of traffic light and zebra crossing violations in the FCT on Sept. 1.
NAN also reports that the operation was targeted to reduce the high incidence of traffic light violations, that contributed significantly to road crashes and gridlocks in the nation’s capital.
It is also expected to actualise its mandate through speedy arrest and prosecution of traffic light violators, conduct of public enlightenment and education on traffic rules and regulations and collaboration with other security agencies to enhance traffic management.
The Corps Marshal who approved the operation emphasised that traffic light violations were a major contributor to road crashes.
“And this must be brought to a halt by all operational means necessary within the ambit of the law.
“We have successfully arrested 823 drivers, administered 923 fines, impounded 189 vehicles and confiscated 634 licenses and vehicle particulars.
“The arrested drivers have been charged with various offence, including; traffic light violation, dangerous driving, road marking violations and reckless driving among others,”he said.
The CM, who was satisfied with the successes already recorded within the short period added that FRSC would continue to enforce traffic laws to ensure a safer and more orderly traffic environment in Abuja.
He commended the efforts of the gallant Commanders of the various units of the intervention patrol and the field operatives.
He, however, directed them to intensify patrol operations at major intersections and traffic light points, particularly during peak hours.
The corps marshal appealed to motorists to cooperate with its personnel and obey all traffic rules and regulations.
This, he said would be in order to consolidate on the gains recorded in the cause of the patrol operations and further entrench sanity in the use of traffic lights in the FCT.
