The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified enforcement of traffic laws across the state, warning motorists and other road users to comply with existing regulations or face legal action.
The command made this known in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, in Uyo on Friday.
According to the police, the statewide enforcement exercise is aimed at restoring sanity on the roads, reducing avoidable road crashes, protecting lives and property, and ensuring the smooth movement of people and vehicles across the state’s 31 local government areas.
The command said particular attention would be given to offences such as driving against traffic, driving without valid vehicle documents or a driver’s licence, and using covered, concealed, defaced or unauthorised number plates.
It also listed the use of unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles among offences that would attract enforcement.
The statement advised motorists, commercial drivers, motorcyclists and tricycle operators to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and that all required documents are valid before using public roads.
“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 command said.
The police spokesperson added that Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, traffic officers and other operational units had been directed to sustain and intensify the enforcement exercise in their respective areas.
John, however, said officers involved in the exercise had been instructed to remain professional, civil and respectful in their dealings with members of the public.
She warned that extortion, harassment, unnecessary delays and other forms of unprofessional conduct would not be tolerated during the operation.
