Caution Against Viber Groups: A Threat to Road Safety

Motorists have been warned against the formation of Viber groups aimed at sharing information concerning police traffic checkpoints and speed radar locations. This practice is primarily designed to evade road safety enforcement, which poses significant risks according to authorities.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Eroni Soqosoqo, the Acting Divisional Police Commander for the Northern region, stated that these groups undermine police efforts and create unsafe conditions on the road. He pointed out that drivers who receive alerts about checkpoints often slow down when close to them, only to speed up again afterward, which has resulted in accidents. He affirmed that those participating in such activities will be held accountable for their actions, emphasizing a strong need for cooperation with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to promote road safety and eliminate reckless driving.

As the New Year approaches, police in the Northern Division are remaining vigilant, conducting foot patrols and road operations to ensure the safety of the public.

In a related message, the LTA has identified driver fatigue as a prominent cause of road accidents in Fiji. Long stretches of driving without adequate rest increase the likelihood of accidents, and the LTA is urging motorists to take breaks during long trips. The authority has also noted that passengers play an essential role in road safety by speaking up when they observe signs of fatigue in drivers, such as drowsiness or erratic behavior. The LTA advocates for a “Stop, Revive, and Survive” approach to mitigate accidents and enhance road safety for all.

The authorities underscored the importance of ceasing any interference with police and LTA operations, as sharing information about checkpoints and speed cameras jeopardizes ongoing efforts to make the roads safer for everyone.

By taking these precautions and fostering a collaborative spirit, both drivers and authorities can work together towards a safer driving environment, particularly important as we head into a busy festive season.