The Maldives Police Service is preparing to introduce a digital fines system as part of strengthened measures against motorists who repeatedly violate traffic laws and engage in dangerous driving.
Assistant Commissioner of Police and Head of Hulhumalé Police Asim Abdulla said work is underway to establish the digital fines system, which is expected to make enforcement against traffic offenders more efficient.
Speaking to PSM News, ACP Asim said the police are carrying out a range of measures to improve road safety and prevent dangerous driving that can create fear and pose risks to members of the public.
He said public awareness efforts will continue, while the police are also preparing to introduce the digital fines system.
“We are always carrying out activities to raise public awareness about various issues. We will continue those efforts going forward. At the same time, we are preparing to introduce digital fines. With that, a system will be established through which fines can be imposed without having to tow vehicles. If all goes according to plan, we will begin this work without delay,” ACP Asim said.
The announcement comes as the Maldives Police Service steps up action against individuals who repeatedly violate traffic laws and regulations. Commissioner of Police Ahmed Mohamed has also previously said that special measures would be taken against habitual traffic offenders as part of efforts to improve road safety.
The Police Commissioner has stressed that stricter action is necessary to ensure road safety, noting that violations by a small number of motorists can affect the rights and safety of many others and contribute to dangerous incidents.
Under the intensified enforcement measures, police are identifying motorists who repeatedly engage in dangerous driving and compiling profiles of such offenders.
Police said offenders may initially be brought before the Maldives Police Service and advised against repeating the violations. However, those who continue such behaviour will face further action under the Traffic Act and related regulations.
In addition to the fines imposed under existing traffic laws, police said criminal investigations may be initiated against repeat offenders without further warning.
The enforcement drive will focus on a range of dangerous driving practices, including zigzag driving intended to frighten or intimidate others, driving vehicles with modified loud exhaust systems, driving aggressively over uneven or raised road surfaces, speeding through speed bumps without slowing down, participating in unauthorised racing or stunt driving, dangerous overtaking and driving under the influence of intoxicants.
Police will also take action against motorists who fail to stop when instructed by officers and instead attempt to flee.
As part of the enforcement measures, vehicles involved in dangerous driving may be seized, with action taken not only against the driver but also, where applicable, the registered owner of the vehicle.
Police said vehicles may be held under police custody for up to 30 days. If the owner fails to take responsibility for the vehicle within the prescribed period, the vehicle may be disposed of in accordance with the applicable procedures.
The police have also identified cases involving employees of government institutions and companies. Information on such employees involved in dangerous driving is being shared with the relevant institutions so that administrative action can be taken where appropriate.
Police said they are also working to make information about repeat dangerous-driving offenders public. At the same time, information, including photographs and videos shared by members of the public, will be verified before any necessary legal action is taken.
The Maldives Police Service has urged the public to continue supporting its efforts to improve road safety and expressed appreciation for the cooperation and assistance being provided by members of the public.
The introduction of digital fines, combined with increased monitoring, public awareness and stronger action against repeat offenders, is expected to strengthen traffic enforcement and contribute to safer roads across the Maldives.
