19 Motorists Prosecuted Over 3rd Party Insurance, Other Traffic Offences in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

A total of nineteen motorists have been arrested and prosecuted at a mobile court within Awka Magisterial District over non-compliance to the “Third party motor insurance” compulsory for all vehicles on Nigerian roads.

The violators were arrested by joint operation of the Nigerian Police and Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC officials as enforcement of “Third party motor insurance” policy commenced in Anambra.

Three of the motorists were, however, discharged and acquitted when it was discovered that they have valid third-party insurance coverage.

Speaking to newsmen during the joint operation at the Amawbia axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, FRSC Sector Commander, Joyce Alexander explained that the enforcement would continue; as adequate awareness had been created.

Alexander, represented by Deputy Corps Commander, Gloria Ezugwu added that the insurance policy is in the interest of the vehicle owners and drivers; as it provides financial compensation up to N1million for damages, injuries or loss of life in accidents.

A truck driver, Mr Anthony Chukwuemeka, who spoke after he paid fine imposed on him by the court, said he was not aware of the third party insurance policy for vehicles, and would hurry to a vehicle licensing office for the procurement.

Police had during a one-week sensitization programme in Awka warned that drivers of private and public vehicles not complying to the third party insurance policy would face prosecution in mobile courts, and that defaulters could be imprisoned or fined.