VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Police will soon gain new powers to randomly test drivers for alcohol and drugs under legal reforms announced by Prime Minister Robert Abela and Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri. The measures come after a series of fatal road accidents this summer sparked pressure from professionals and lobby groups for tougher enforcement.
The proposed amendments, to be debated in September as part of the Traffic Regulation Ordinance (Amendment) Bill, will allow police to conduct drug and alcohol checks at random, without requiring “reasonable suspicion.”
Crucially, motorists found guilty of causing a fatal crash while under the influence will face mandatory prison sentences, removing the option of suspended terms.
Fines for driving under the influence will rise, and police will be empowered to request the immediate suspension of a driver’s licence pending court proceedings.
Minister Camilleri noted that road checks have already surged, with 2,000 inspections carried out so far this year, matching last year’s total. The figure is on track to nearly triple the number of checks carried out three years ago.
-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).
