Regional News of Friday, 10 February 2017

Source: Ghanaian Times

Traffic offences fetch GH¢1.4m fine for govt

A total of 3,347 drivers were convicted for various road offences across the country last year, as against 3,721 the previous year.

The offences were driving under the influence of alcohol, over speeding, driving without a licence, overloading, and dangerous driving among others.

An amount of GH¢1,339,615.00 fines were paid into the consolidated fund.

The Staff Officer of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Emmanuel Adu Boahen told The Ghanaian Times in Accra yesterday.

He said a total of 5098 cases were reported out of which 4016 were sent to court, 383 drivers are awaiting trial, 542 are under investigations, a bench warrant had been issued for the arrest of 196 drivers, 44 had been jailed and 537 drivers served with warning letters.

He said the MTTD would intensify its campaign at all public places to sensitise them on the dangers of road accidents.

DSP Boahen advised drivers to ensure that the roads were safe for commuters.

“Drivers should be careful on the roads to ensure that lives and properties were saved,” he added.

He urged drivers to abide by road safety regulations to ensure sanity on the roads.

“Drivers who do not abide by the regulations would be arrested and prosecuted,” he added.

He urged the media to collaborate with the police in ensuring the roads were safe for commuters and road users.