As the festive season approaches, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has intensified nationwide operations to ensure that all road users travel safely. With increased movement expected on highways and in towns, the police have launched a special campaign code-named “Arrive Alive.” The aim is to reduce road crashes, enforce traffic laws, and make sure families reach their destinations without tragedy.
Traffic police say the operations are already yielding results. In the past one week alone, a total of 644 drivers were arrested for committing various traffic offences. These arrests were made as officers carried out routine checks and patrols on major roads across the country. The high number of offenders shows the need for strict enforcement during the busy festive period.
The most common offence recorded was operating vehicles in dangerous mechanical conditions, with 325 drivers arrested. Such vehicles pose serious danger to passengers and other road users. Another 124 drivers were apprehended for reckless driving, including speeding and unsafe overtaking, while 123 drivers were arrested for illegal vehicle modifications.
Other serious offences included 23 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol, 17 drivers without valid driving licences, and 14 cases of dangerous loading. Police also impounded vehicles that had been abandoned on the road and arrested drivers who carried passengers in risky positions, putting lives at risk.
The Directorate has made it clear that these operations will continue throughout the festive season. Police will also target violations such as operating without route charts, using forged documents, breaching operators’ licences, carrying excess passengers, and other practices that threaten the safety of travelers.
Motorists and transport operators have been issued with strict directives to follow. Buses traveling distances beyond 300 kilometers are not allowed to make return journeys within 24 hours. Only buses with valid PSV licences and route charts will be allowed on the road, and all drivers must carry valid driving licences and badges while on duty.
Drivers have also been reminded to ensure their vehicles are in good mechanical condition, with proper brakes, lighting, and tire pressure. Speed limits must be respected, especially in areas with many pedestrians, and overtaking in risky places such as hills and corners must be avoided. The use of mobile phones while driving has been strongly discouraged.
The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has reaffirmed its commitment to working with government agencies, transport operators, civil society, the media, and the general public to promote safer roads. Public awareness campaigns are ongoing, and travelers are urged to remain alert and responsible. Road safety, police say, is a shared responsibility, and everyone must play their part to ensure a safe and joyful festive season.
