The Ghana Police Service’s Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) has made significant progress in boosting 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; these include Police Invisible Eyes and Operation PAILES (Police Anti-Insecure Loading Enforcement Strategy).
According to Chief Superintendent Alexander Obeng, the Director for Research and Education at the MTTD, punitive measures are being taken to deter reckless driving and other traffic violations in Ghana.
He expressed optimism that such measures will lead to a positive change in behaviour.
From January to October of this year, about 2,705 offenders were convicted and sentenced for their traffic violations. As a result, 12 individuals are currently serving jail terms, while others were fined.
The total amount of fines imposed on the offenders amounted to GH¢1,988,219, which has contributed significantly to the country’s revenue.
To further reduce motorcycle-related deaths, the Police Action Against Rider Indiscipline (OPERATION PAARI) has been implemented.
This program involves sensitizing and issuing warning letters to offenders, which has contributed to a significant decline in such incidents.
“Last year, we had 811 deaths by October…it has reduced to 751. One death is one too many so if the population is increasing and this introduction is also yielding positive results it’s natural that we are happy with it,” Chief Superintendent Alexander Obeng noted.
