The Ghana Police Service’s Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) has made significant progress in raising road safety.
Nearly 3,000 traffic offenders were found guilty by the MTTD between January and October 2023, which significantly reduced the number of traffic accidents and fatalities.
Some notable interventions have helped lead to these convictions; examples include Police Invisible Eyes and Operation PAILES (Police Anti-Insecure Loading Enforcement Strategy).
Twelve people are incarcerated at the moment, but the penalties levied against others make up a considerable portion of the nation’s income.
Speaking to the media at the National Road Safety Authority’s “Stop Speeding-Stay Alive” road safety Christmas campaign launch on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, Chief Superintendent Alexander Obeng, Director for Research and Education at the MTTD, expressed optimism that the punitive measures will help to change behaviour.
“We can state that from January to October of this year, in this procedure, we were able to convict around 2, 705 individuals when they appeared in court. Twelve of them are currently incarcerated, and the court has fined each of them differently. In all, the state has paid out GH¢1,988,219 in penalties thus far. We anticipate that this will significantly discourage both those who plan to start for the first time and those who are brave enough to repeat such actions,” he added.
The notable decrease in motorcycle-related fatalities is also a result of Police Action Against Rider Indiscipline (OPERATION PAARI), which raises awareness among offenders and issues warning letters.
By October of last year, there were 811 deaths; this year, there are just 751. One death is one too many, therefore it makes sense that we would be pleased if the population is growing and this introduction is also producing favourable outcomes, stated Chief Superintendent Alexander Obeng.
