Police yet to start on-the-spot fines
The Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service has stated that it is yet to implement the “on-the-spot fine,” contrary to an alert being circulated on social media.
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The operation is expected to get drivers who commit traffic offences to pay a spot fine as punishment.
According to the alert, anyone found driving while on the phone during the Yuletide will attract a spot fine of up to 50 penalty units or GH¢600.
Modality inconclusive
However, the Director General of the MTTD, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr Angwubutoge Awuni, said any policeman or woman seen extorting money from drivers on the basis of the spot fine would be dealt with.
During an interaction with District Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) commanders in the Greater Accra Region, he explained that the modalities for the implementation were not yet concluded.
He stated that the implementation of the on-the-spot fine might start next year, “but some police officers have been captured on video harassing and extorting money from some drivers”.
Mr Awuni said any police officer who extorted money from a driver “in the name of spot fine is a criminal and I urge the public to stand up against such act”.
Traffic congestion
As the Yuletide festivities approach, Mr Awuni tasked all MTTU commanders to ensure that major roads in their areas were free of traffic congestion to enhance movement.
He asked police personnel who were not attached to the MTTU to assist with road traffic control when they chanced upon them.
“There are instances where police officers who are not with the MTTU are seen standing aloof when the traffic situation on a road is bad or a driver is committing a road traffic offence. They look on as if they are just spectators”.
He warned that the police administration would penalise any MTTU commander who allows a civilian to direct traffic at intersections in his jurisdiction.
“A team has been set up to monitor traffic direction throughout the country, and any commander will be held liable if such act is seen in your jurisdiction,” he said.