39 defective vehicles impounded in NCD

The impounded vehicles are now held at the impounding yard at 8 mile outside Port Moresby. (Image: Police Media)

Police in Port Moresby have impounded 39 defective vehicles during an enforcement operation across the city.

National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab praised police officers and the Road Traffic Authority after the vehicles were taken to the Eight Mile impounding yard today.

Met Supt Simatab said the vehicles were identified on city streets, with drivers arrested and the vehicles removed. In some cases, drivers abandoned their vehicles and fled, forcing police tow trucks to transport them to the impounding yard.

He said the operation has already made a noticeable difference in the city.

Of the vehicles impounded, 22 were public buses, nine were taxis, and eight were privately owned vehicles.

Met Supt Simatab warned that police and enforcement agencies will continue to arrest drivers and impound defective vehicles found operating on public roads.

"I want to call on all vehicle owners to adhere to traffic laws. If you are caught violating one or more, you will be arrested and charged. If the offense warrants us to impound your vehicle at the impounding yard, we will do so, giving you time to fix your car before we release it back on the road. Otherwise, it is best to keep your vehicle at home, get it fixed, and then drive it on the road," Metsupt Simatab said.

He also urged vehicle owners to check their vehicles before putting them on hire or driving on public streets, warning that enforcement agencies will take action against those who ignore safety requirements.