The Maldives Police Service has launched a special operation to crack down on dangerous driving and take stringent action against individuals operating vehicles in a manner that causes public fear and endangers safety.
Police stated that repeat offenders of dangerous driving will face criminal investigations without prior warning, in addition to the standard fines mandated under traffic laws and regulations.
However, the authorities noted that for initial offences, individuals will be summoned to the police station for formal counselling.
As part of this initiative, police have begun identifying and profiling dangerous drivers. The objective of this effort is to ensure road safety and reduce accidents caused by reckless driving.
The special operation will target manoeuvres that incite fear, such as zigzagging through traffic, modifying vehicles with loud exhausts, and performing "burnouts" or screeching tyres on paved surfaces.
Furthermore, police warned of strict action against those who speed through speed bumps, engage in racing or stunts, perform dangerous overtakes, or drive under the influence.
Authorities are set to penalise both the drivers and the registered owners of vehicles involved in dangerous driving. Seized vehicles will be impounded for 30 days, and police cautioned that any vehicle not reclaimed by its owner within the designated period will be disposed of in accordance with established procedures.
The police further highlighted that employees of government institutions and state-owned enterprises have been identified among those engaging in such dangerous activities. Information regarding these individuals is being shared with their respective employers to facilitate appropriate administrative action.
To further ensure road safety, the Maldives Police Service announced that it will begin publicising the identities of repeat offenders involved in dangerous driving.
This special operation comes amid a surge in reckless driving incidents, several of which have recently gained public attention after videos of the acts circulated on social media, prompting police investigations.
