SEREMBAN: Queue-cutting and running the red light were the two most common traffic offences committed by motorists in Negri Sembilan during the recent Hari Raya celebrations, says the Road Transport Department (JPJ).

       State JPJ director Hanif Yusabra Yusuf said of the total 316 notices issued to motorists for nine main offences during the recent Ops Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2022, 149 were for queue cutting and 92 for running the red light.

       He added that all the offenders caught during the festive season would have to attend court where their fate would be decided by a magistrate, as the offences were considered non-compoundable during the operation.

       "The maximum fine for each offence under the Road Transport Act is RM2,000 and it will be up to the court to decide on the (final) penalty.

       "Another 32 notices were issued to motorists for driving on the emergency lane and six more for using their mobile phones while driving," he said on Monday (May 9).

       The operation was held from April 29 until Sunday (May 8).

       He said some offenders were also caught speeding by Automatic Awareness Security System (AwAS) cameras.

       Hanif said 20 motorists were issued compound notices for overloading and 12 more for overtaking across the double line.

       "We also deployed drones, including along the North South Expressway, to monitor traffic and detect those using the emergency lane or running the red light on federal routes.

       "We now have two drones and hope to acquire five more as it is safer and more effective in traffic management," he said.

       He hoped the presence of drone patrols would also deter motorists from breaking the law.

       He said JPJ officers also went undercover on 18 express buses to check if the drivers committed traffic offences.

       Two drivers were fined for using their mobile phones while driving and one for tailgating.

       Separately, Hanif said his officers had also inspected 2,010 vehicles during the operation and 610 owners were found to have committed a total of 1,108 offences.

       He said these included not having a valid licence (277), lacking road tax and insurance (284) and technical violations (153), among others.