Joseph Isangura
The Traffic Police in Tanzania have ramped up a nationwide crackdown targeting nighttime traffic violations.
This operation, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Ramadhan Ng’anzi, has focused on identifying dangerous behaviors among drivers, such as overspeeding and driving unroadworthy vehicles, with a special emphasis on nighttime offenders.
The latest phase of the operation took place in the Arumeru District, Arusha, during the night of September 20, 2024. During this operation, several drivers were apprehended, and vehicles violating safety standards were impounded. DCP Ng’anzi highlighted that the ongoing 24-hour initiative is designed to address road safety holistically by focusing on both day and night traffic violations. Key concerns being addressed include the inspection of vehicle conditions and ensuring drivers’ sobriety, especially for those operating during night hours.
“The operation is not just about enforcing the law but also educating road users, particularly passengers, on the dangers of encouraging reckless driving,” DCP Ng’anzi stated. He stressed the need for passengers to hold drivers accountable for safe driving practices, as many accidents are caused by speeding and other traffic violations.
The crackdown is set to move beyond Arusha to other regions in Tanzania, with the goal of making the country’s roads safer for all users. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Zauda Mohamed, the Arusha Regional Traffic Commander, affirmed the readiness of the region’s traffic enforcement team.
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“We are committed to ensuring that both daytime and nighttime drivers comply with the traffic regulations to curb road accidents,” she said.
Passengers, meanwhile, have expressed their approval of the operation, calling for it to be sustained to mitigate the frequent accidents that have claimed numerous lives on Tanzania’s roads.
The authorities hope that these efforts will lead to a significant drop in road accidents, especially those that occur during nighttime hours.
