Home Minister Ali Ihusaan said last night that authorities have noted an unusual increase in individuals operating vehicles while under the influence of intoxicants.
Speaking at the "Ahaa Forum" hosted by the President's Office, Ihusaan emphasised that special priority is being given to addressing the alarming rise in driving under the influence.
"We have observed an extraordinary increase in people operating vehicles while intoxicated. The Maldives Police Service is now focusing heavily on tackling this issue," Ihusaan said.
The Minister further revealed that over the past two years, 1,904 motorcycles involved in reckless driving or traffic violations that endangered others have been towed for long periods, with fines imposed on the offenders.
Additionally, Ihusaan noted that traffic police presence will be strengthened across the atolls to ensure more effective monitoring and enforcement of traffic regulations.
Highlighting concerns over the issuance of licenses to unqualified individuals, Ihusaan pointed out that some accidents involve drivers who possess no knowledge of traffic laws and regulations.
So far this year, 2,254 accidents have been reported to the police, with 204 of those incidents occurring within the current month alone.
