Gambia police have launched a road safety campaign dubbed Operation Road Safety to address the rise in fatal road accidents.

The country is grappling with a spate of fatal road accidents caused by over speeding and reckless driving.

In a statement the police said: ”Following the surge in road traffic accidents in the country, the GPF is set to change the narratives by strategising new measures geared towards maximum safety and security on our highways.

“The police management is now taking a holistic approach in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to avert and change the trend. 

“Series of consultation meetings have been conducted with stakeholders including the National Road Authority (NRA), the Ministry of Works, Transportation and Infrastructure, Transport Union among others.

“Henceforth, police officers will be visible in every 2 kilometers to observe and enforce all traffic rules & regulations, which includes; speeding, vehicle road worthiness, overloading, triangular reflectors, headlights, fire extinguishers and etc. 

“The office of the IGP has also deemed it neccessary to introduce an Accident Response Squad and regular Highway Patrols that will help in reducing the spate in accidents. 

“In this regard, the office of the IGP uses this oppprtunity to urge every road user, including motorists, passengers, pedestarians and every other stakeholder to come together and help in ensuring our roads remain safe by respecting traffic rules & stipulated regulations. 

“Drivers are equally warned to desist from overloading, over-speeding and exibiting reckless manners whilst driving. 

“Regional Police Commissioners have been instructed to make sure these rules and regulations are enforced to the latter.”