The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Cross River Sector Command, will commence a special intervention patrol operation across major highways and urban roads in the state from June 29 to curb traffic violations and improve road safety.

Sector Commander, Corps Commander Innocent Etuk, disclosed this today to journalists in Calabar noting that the operation is designed to enhance compliance with traffic regulations, reduce road crashes and promote responsible driving among motorists and transport operators.

He said the exercise forms part of the Corps’ sustained efforts to create a safer road environment for all road users across the state.

According to Etuk, the operation will target critical traffic offences, including vehicle overloading, driver’s licence violations and number plate-related offences.

He explained that enforcement teams would also conduct random screening of motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol and psychoactive substances using the Corps’ alcohol detection device, known as the Alcolyzer.

The Sector Commander warned transport operators and commercial drivers against overloading vehicles, describing the practice as one of the leading causes of vehicle instability, brake failure, tyre bursts and fatal road crashes.

He stressed that drivers must possess valid driver’s licences, noting that the document serves as proof that a motorist has received the required training and certification to drive safely on public roads.

Etuk also expressed concern over the increasing incidence of number plate violations, including the use of fake, obscured, unregistered or improperly displayed number plates.

He said proper vehicle identification remains essential for effective traffic management, crime prevention and national security.

On substance-impaired driving, the FRSC boss disclosed that patrol teams have been equipped with alcohol screening devices to identify motorists driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

He warned that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with relevant traffic laws.

The sector commander urged motorists to cooperate with FRSC personnel throughout the exercise by complying with all traffic regulations, stressing that road safety is a collective responsibility.

He assured members of the public that the operation would be conducted professionally, transparently and in line with the Corps’ standard operating procedures while respecting the rights of citizens.