Reckless drivers to face criminal prosecution, tougher penalties: Police

Colombo, June 30 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Police have introduced tougher measures against dangerous and reckless driving, warning that serious traffic offenders will face criminal prosecution in addition to penalties under existing traffic laws.

Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Traffic Control and Road Safety, W.P.J. Senadeera, said serious traffic offences will no longer be dealt with solely through spot fines, with offenders instead being produced before court.

He revealed that police detected 321 cases of dangerous and reckless driving on June 27 and a further 315 cases on June 28, indicating a continued rise in serious traffic violations.

According to the DIG, motorists who cross double white lines or overtake in a manner that endangers oncoming traffic will be charged with dangerous and reckless driving.

He warned that drivers convicted of the offence on three occasions could have their driving licences suspended.

DIG Senadeera further noted that motorcycles account for 51% of Sri Lanka’s vehicle fleet, while three-wheelers make up 12%, with a significant proportion of these vehicles being driven by individuals aged between 18 and 30.