POLICE WARN A’IBOM MOTORISTS AGAINST TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS, PLEDGE STRICT ENFORCEMENT

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has warned motorists against violating traffic laws and regulations, stressing that anyone found culpable will be dealt with according to the law.

The command also pledged to sustain its statewide enforcement exercise across all 31 local government areas of the state.

In a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, in Uyo on Friday, motorists were advised to comply strictly with existing traffic laws, with the police stressing that ignorance of the law would not be accepted as an excuse.

The command said the enforcement exercise was aimed at restoring sanity on the roads, reducing avoidable road crashes, protecting lives and property, and ensuring the free and orderly movement of people and vehicles across the state.

According to the police, particular attention would be paid to offences including driving against traffic, driving without valid vehicle documents or a driver’s licence, and the use of covered, concealed, defaced or unauthorised number plates.

The command also listed the use of unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles among offences that would attract enforcement.

“Anyone apprehended for violating traffic laws will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Ignorance of the law will not be accepted as an excuse,” the statement said.

The police spokesperson said Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, traffic officers and other operational units across the state had been directed to sustain and intensify enforcement within their respective jurisdictions.

She added that the exercise would be firm and comprehensive, while officers had been directed to remain professional, civil and respectful in their dealings with members of the public.

The command also warned that extortion, harassment, unnecessary delays and other forms of unprofessional conduct by officers would not be tolerated during the enforcement exercise.

Motorists and motorcycle and tricycle operators were therefore urged to ensure their vehicles were roadworthy and that all required documents and particulars were valid before using public roads.