Coronavirus in UAE: 9,000 motorists caught on camera during sterilisation hours in Sharjah

More than 9,000 motorists were caught on traffic radars in Sharjah during the hours of the National Sterilisation Programme, according to a top Sharjah Police official.

"Every vehicle on road during the sanitisation hours - 8pm to 6am - will be dealt case by case," said Major-General Saif Al Zari Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of the Sharjah Police.

"Traffic has been smooth as most people adhered to the regulations by staying at their homes, working remotely and stepping out just for necessities.

"The exit permit system was suspended as many people did not understand how to use it," he added.

Traffic fine discounts

"All traffic violations after April 1 will be discounted by 50 per cent and confiscation of vehicles, even those prior to March 31, will be cancelled as per the latest decision by the Sharjah Executive Council. The discount will be in effect for three months and is subject to renewal. Traffic black points will also be cancelled, vehicles seized will be released and the discount on violations will be automatically updated," said Maj-Gen Al Shamsi.

"An integrated team will be available throughout the day to answer all public queries. All Ministry of Interior (MoI) services are now available online or through the app," he added.

Maj-Gen Al Shamsi stressed that the police will not tolerate any actions that will obstruct the procedures and measures being applied to protect the society from Covid-19 pandemic.

"A total of 120 patrols have been deployed across the emirate to ensure all residents are committed to the measures being rolled out by the authorities."