The Ministry of Interior (MOI) announced the implementation of a traffic point system to deal with errant motorists who flout the traffic laws and commit traffic violations. According to the circular, the tougher policy includes handing out prison sentences to citizens and residents for accumulating traffic points for repeated traffic violations, especially severe traffic violations that lead to loss of life or property.
Expatriates face immediate deportation for driving under the influence of alcohol, or driving without a license, as well as when they reach the maximum point for breaking the red signals or speeding.
In recent months, the MoI has been applying the strengthened traffic laws against violators, meting out punishments such as impounding vehicles and temporarily withdrawing driving licenses to those caught flouting the traffic laws.
According to a circular issued by the ministry earlier in the year, the withdrawal of the vehicle and the drive license and the referral of the person to the authorities was to be enforced against violators found carrying passengers in return for money, holding illegal races on public roads, and driving recklessly.
The punishment of license withdrawal and impounding of cars is also mandated for those who drive a vehicle without number plates, drive against the flow of traffic, reckless driving or if the motorist tends to be negligent.
Other violations that could invite severe punishment include not showing the registration book, driving the vehicle without insurance, if the vehicle is emitting smoke or producing too much noise, driving a vehicle with tinted glass, obstructing traffic movement and exceeding the speed limit.