The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has warned motorists against fighting personnel of the Corps.
Shehu Mohammed said the Corps would not fail to prosecute any motorist found assaulting its personnel while discharging their statutory duties.
In a statement on Friday by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal, Olusegun Ogungbemide, FRSC boss said the warning became very necessary following a barrage of attacks and assaults on its personnel who are in most cases diligently carrying out their duties.
He noted that attacks on personnel increased as the Corps began its annual end-of-the-year special patrol operations tagged ‘Operation Zero Tolerance to Road Traffic Crashes’ on 15 December.
“FRSC operatives play a vital role in maintaining safety on the roads and ensuring compliance with traffic regulations across Nigeria. As such, assaulting them does not only undermine their authority but also hampers the overall performance and effort put in place to reduce road traffic crashes and fatalities.
“The Corps will leave no stone unturned by ensuring that the law takes it’s due course and anyone apprehended will be dealt with in accordance with extant regulations.
“This is because, beyond the administrative penalties imposed by the NRTR 2012, the constitution of the Federal Republic as well as the Criminal Act also prescribes criminal sanctions for assaulting law enforcement officers.
“These measures therefore underscore the importance of respecting FRSC personnel and adhering to traffic laws,” he said.
Mohammed emphasized that the Corps has manifested commitment to prosecuting individuals who assault its officers, as demonstrated in recent incidents where motorists were apprehended and charged for such offenses.
“It’s crucial for motorists to understand that any grievances against FRSC personnel should be addressed through proper legal channels rather than resorting to violence. This approach ensures the safety of all road users and upholds the integrity of law enforcement processes,” he added.