BY SUNNY DAVID
The Anambra state command of the Federal Road Safety Corps says it impounded 8,345 commercial vehicles since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Anambra state.
Mr. Andrew Ayodele Kumapayi, the state commandant of the agency said the clampdown began early this year when the coronavirus disease broke out and that the commercial vehicles were impounded for disregard of the COVID-19 safety protocol of social distancing as well as other traffic offences.
The commandant who disclosed this to our correspondent at the command headquarters in Awka, also stated that about 962 rickety trucks had been apprehended between January and August this year.
Mr. Kumapayi said the arrests were made during the joint operations of the FRSC and the Anambra State Ministry of Transport.
He also revealed that the State House of Assembly passed a resolution that the corps should rid the entire State off the menace and nightmares of rickety vehicles especially trucks.
The Anambra FRSC boss explained that the decision of the legislature led to the commencement of the crackdown on rickety vehicles like tippers on Anambra roads even as he pointed out that the arrest cut across private and commercial vehicles.
He maintained that there was no favouritism in the arrest of traffic offenders and that any one who flouted traffic rules and regulations was made to face the full consequences of the law.
The sector commander, however, advised motorists to drive safely in this ember months period, noting that FRSC would in no distant time begin its ember months safety campaigns and special patrol operations to allay fears associated with the period.
The Anambra FRSC Boss said, “There is no demon associated with ember months. One thing travellers must do during this period is to plan their journeys very well. I want to advise that people should not travel in the night because it is safer to travel in the day so that in the event of any unforeseen circumstances, they can get help easily.”
According to Mr. Kumapayi, strict compliance to traffic regulations, obedience to speed limits as well as consideration for other road users would guarantee a safer motoring environment and also reduce road traffic crashes this ember months season.