BY Grace Zigah
The Ghana Police Service has announced an impending nationwide crackdown on the unauthorized use of sirens, strobe lights and other emergency warning devices on private and non-designated vehicles, following what it describes as a disturbing rise in the practice.
According to the Police, the unlawful installation of these warning appliances by individuals and institutions not permitted by law has become a growing threat to public safety.
The practice, the Service warns, creates panic on the roads, disrupts traffic flow and fuels indiscipline among motorists.
Citing Regulation 74 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), the Police stressed that the use of sirens, horns, bells and strobe lights is strictly reserved for a limited category of vehicles.
These include government vehicles used officially by the Head of State, Police vehicles, Fire Service vehicles, ambulances operated by recognized hospitals or clinics, vehicles belonging to other approved government security agencies, as well as registered bullion vehicles.
Any vehicle outside these clearly defined categories, the Police cautioned, is prohibited by law from using such emergency warning devices.
The Police Service has therefore directed all individuals and institutions who have unlawfully fixed sirens or strobe lights on their vehicles to remove them immediately.
Failure to comply, the statement warned, will result in arrest and prosecution when offenders are identified.
With the Christmas season approaching—a period traditionally marked by heavy vehicular traffic—the Police say they will soon commence strict enforcement of the regulation as part of efforts to restore order, discipline and safety on Ghana’s roads.
The public has been urged to cooperate fully with law enforcement and support efforts aimed at maintaining law and order, particularly during the festive period.
