Large-scale police raids: more than 1,200 drivers held accountable

The General Directorate of Traffic Police of the TRNC carried out large-scale checks across the country, resulting in legal action being taken against 1,208 drivers for various traffic violations. In addition, 125 vehicles were confiscated and nine people were arrested.

The inspections were conducted simultaneously in different regions of the country with the participation of narcotics and anti-smuggling units. Entertainment venues, casinos, cafes, betting shops, markets and other places where large crowds gather, as well as main roads and traffic flows, came under scrutiny.

According to the police, a total of 6,596 drivers were checked. The most common violation was speeding, with 445 cases recorded. Other findings included 34 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol, 11 cases of driving without a licence and insurance, 47 cases of driving without insurance, and 84 cases of operating a vehicle without a navigation licence.

Among other violations were using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing seat belts, lacking a technical inspection, ignoring road signs and traffic lights. Police also recorded cases of dangerous driving, transporting hazardous goods and refusing to comply with a stop order.

As part of the security operations, other violations were also identified. Administrative fines were issued to 102 people found in casinos despite the ban. Another 105 people faced cases for selling alcohol without a licence, violating business opening hours and music broadcasting rules.

In addition, during one of the inspections, police found 64 shotgun shells in a car. The owner was arrested.

In total, legal proceedings were initiated against 1,313 people during the raids. The police said such operations would continue to improve public safety and road control.