The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched a nationwide operation to crack down on vehicles transporting flammable materials.
News About Nigeria reports that the FRSC’s Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, issued the directive to immediately stop the transportation of hazardous substances like petroleum products across the country.
Mohammed announced this through a statement released by the Corps Public Education Officer, Corps Commander Olusegun Ogungbemide, in Abuja on Friday.
The operation involves deploying patrol teams to search for and identify vehicles carrying these dangerous products.
“Drivers found carrying these substances will be required to empty the fuel into their vehicle’s tank,” he said.
The corps marshal also instructed operatives to educate drivers and passengers about the risks of transporting petroleum products in vehicles.
Unlike previous operations, drivers may face prosecution for endangering their passengers’ safety during this intervention.
Mohammed said that there is no excuse for such reckless behaviour.
The operation aims to ensure that these products are safely stored in vehicle fuel tanks to prevent fires.
Mohammed also ordered a thorough investigation into recent fire-related road crashes to determine their causes and prevent future incidents.
The investigation revealed that drivers often transport petroleum products while on the move, leading to devastating fires in the event of a crash.
The Corps Marshal directed the CPEOs to intensify public awareness campaigns to stop this dangerous practice.
Mohammed urged passengers to take responsibility for their safety by reporting suspicious vehicles to FRSC patrol teams or emergency lines.
This will help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of lives and properties during travel.
