JUST IN: More than 400 traffic fines issued at the coast
About 25 vehicles suspended
The Walvis Bay municipal traffic department issued more than 400 fines during the festive season.
Fines with an estimated value of N$1.45 million were issued at the coast.
According to the acting chief traffic officer of the Walvis Bay municipality, Clifton Jacobs, more than 400 traffic-related fines were issued, of which 44 (N$352 000) were served for drunken driving.
"We also issued verbal as well as written warnings to drivers and pedestrians alike. About 25 vehicles were suspended after they were found to be in an unroadworthy condition.”
Jacobs added that during the previous two years, not a lot of holidaymakers had visited the coast due to Covid-19 restrictions. “Movement was limited due to restrictions and measures set against Covid-19. This year, visitors really moved in with a lot of traffic experienced on our roads, especially in the coastal towns of Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and Henties Bay.”
According to Jacobs, the large number of drivers caused numerous problems and this resulted in fines to people who misbehaved.
"We worked 24 hours a day. The officials tried their best to maintain law and order at the coast.”
Roadblocks
Jacobs said that the roadblocks served its purpose and were efficient. “We had two permanent roadblocks between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay as well as one just outside Swakopmund on your way to Arandis. Temporal roadblocks were also put up in and around the coastal towns.”
Booze Bus
According to Jacobs, the Booze Bus is a real fear factor. “Whenever drivers see the Booze Bus, they warn each other on the road. The Booze Bus comes in handy when issuing fines and making arrest on the spot. We have all necessary equipment in the vehicle and can check for outstanding fines and take people for a breathalyser test."
Jacobs said that drunk driving is still a big concern on the roads. "We still have a big issue concerning drunken driving. Since the start of the operations, we arrested 44 people for drunken driving in Walvis Bay alone.”
Fatigue
Jacobs also urged drivers to get enough rest, especially when travelling over long distances. “Fatigue can be a big problem and can cause serious accidents. Drivers are advised to please get some time of the road.”
He also urged drivers with outstanding fees to settle their fines before 31 January. “Please make a call or come visit our office to sort out these outstanding fines. After 31 January we will go back and arrest you and you will have to come to court."
According to the acting chief traffic officer of the Walvis Bay municipality, Clifton Jacobs, more than 400 traffic-related fines were issued, of which 44 (N$352 000) were served for drunken driving.
"We also issued verbal as well as written warnings to drivers and pedestrians alike. About 25 vehicles were suspended after they were found to be in an unroadworthy condition.”
Jacobs added that during the previous two years, not a lot of holidaymakers had visited the coast due to Covid-19 restrictions. “Movement was limited due to restrictions and measures set against Covid-19. This year, visitors really moved in with a lot of traffic experienced on our roads, especially in the coastal towns of Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and Henties Bay.”
According to Jacobs, the large number of drivers caused numerous problems and this resulted in fines to people who misbehaved.
"We worked 24 hours a day. The officials tried their best to maintain law and order at the coast.”
Roadblocks
Jacobs said that the roadblocks served its purpose and were efficient. “We had two permanent roadblocks between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay as well as one just outside Swakopmund on your way to Arandis. Temporal roadblocks were also put up in and around the coastal towns.”
Booze Bus
According to Jacobs, the Booze Bus is a real fear factor. “Whenever drivers see the Booze Bus, they warn each other on the road. The Booze Bus comes in handy when issuing fines and making arrest on the spot. We have all necessary equipment in the vehicle and can check for outstanding fines and take people for a breathalyser test."
Jacobs said that drunk driving is still a big concern on the roads. "We still have a big issue concerning drunken driving. Since the start of the operations, we arrested 44 people for drunken driving in Walvis Bay alone.”
Fatigue
Jacobs also urged drivers to get enough rest, especially when travelling over long distances. “Fatigue can be a big problem and can cause serious accidents. Drivers are advised to please get some time of the road.”
He also urged drivers with outstanding fees to settle their fines before 31 January. “Please make a call or come visit our office to sort out these outstanding fines. After 31 January we will go back and arrest you and you will have to come to court."
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