Latest news with #AhmedHajiAlSerkal


Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Khaleej Times
Dh3,000 fine, 30 days impoundment: Sharjah warns against blocking emergency vehicles
Delays can be deadly. Authorities in Sharjah are sounding the alarm over a dangerous habit putting lives at risk — blocking emergency vehicles from reaching accident scenes on time. Brigadier Ahmed Haji Al Serkal, director general of the General Department of Prevention and Community Protection, told Khaleej Times: ' Too many motorists are still failing to give way to emergency vehicles, a critical mistake that often delays rescue operations in cases of fires, drownings, and road accidents.' 'Every second counts in emergencies,' he underscored, explaining: 'People's lives depend on how fast our rescue teams can reach them. Delays can mean the difference between life and death.' Statistics from the Ministry of Interior revealed that in 2024, a total of 325 accidents across the UAE were caused by failure to give way to emergency vehicles. The highest number occurred in Dubai (160), followed by Abu Dhabi (107), Ajman (31), Sharjah (17), Ras Al Khaimah (5), Umm Al Quwain (3), and Fujairah (2). Sharjah Police have reiterated their commitment to road safety, calling on all drivers to become responsible partners in their mission. 'When you see an ambulance or a fire truck with sirens on, move aside. Don't hesitate,' Al Serkal urged. 'Help us help others; it's a shared responsibility.' Colonel Sami Al Naqbi, director general of Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, added: 'Yielding to emergency vehicles is not just a rule; it's a moral duty.' He explained that if an emergency vehicle approaches from behind at a red signal, motorists should carefully move forward into the pedestrian area without crossing the red light. 'This simple action can save lives. It's about compassion and civic sense. Every driver has a role to play,' he pointed out. Al Naqbi stressed that respecting this rule not only enhances public safety but also supports the UAE's national goals in reducing traffic-related deaths. Dh3,000 fine, 30 days vehicle impoundment Motorists who fail to yield to emergency vehicles face serious legal consequences, including a Dh3,000 fine, six black points, and vehicle impoundment for 30 days. Authorities stress these penalties apply regardless of where the emergency vehicle is approaching from – whether behind, beside, or from another lane, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and a quick response. In more critical scenarios, such as natural disasters, emergencies, or severe weather events, the law comes down even harder. Drivers who obstruct rescue efforts in these situations can be fined additional Dh1,000, four more black points, and have their vehicle impounded for 60 days, a clear message that interfering with emergency services is both dangerous and unacceptable.


Sharjah 24
23-04-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Police fosters security awareness at SCRF 2025
Promoting security through community partnership Brigadier General Ahmed Haji Al Serkal, Director General of the General Department of Community Prevention and Protection, highlighted the importance of the Sharjah Children Reading Festival (SCRF 2025) in reinforcing Sharjah Police's collaboration with educational and cultural institutions. The Sharjah Police participation aims to utilise such platforms to deliver interactive, age-appropriate educational content that fosters positive behaviour and community values in youth. Interactive pavilion activities for children The Sharjah Police pavilion offered a wide array of educational and entertaining activities designed to engage children and boost their skills. A key highlight was the 'Little Expert' program, conducted in partnership with various departments. AI-powered learning and creative workshops Children explored an artificial intelligence lab and took part in a workshop that transformed their drawings into AI-generated animations. Storytelling sessions further blended learning with fun, helping develop communication and imagination. Workshops on safety, cyber awareness, and creativity The pavilion hosted workshops focused on traffic safety, anti-bullying, and cybercrime prevention, all tailored to children. A 'Story to Tell' segment aimed to improve storytelling and writing abilities while encouraging a love for reading. Family support and educational guidance To support families, a counseling session led by a family and child specialist offered parenting advice and educational guidance, rounding out the pavilion's focus on holistic child development and safety.


Sharjah 24
21-03-2025
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Police concludes Ramadan activities for inmates
The closing ceremony was graced by Brigadier General Ahmed Haji Al Serkal, who leads the General Department of Prevention and Community Protection, along with Colonel Abdullah Alai Al Naqbi, the head of the Punitive and Correctional Institutions Department at Sharjah Police. Many representatives from supporting organizations, specialized officers, and the families of inmates were also present. The event started with a reading from the Holy Quran. Brigadier General Al Serkal then spoke about the important work being done by the institution to provide ongoing support and services that protect the rights of inmates. He praised their efforts to enhance the institution's humanitarian values and noted that these programs are a great opportunity to teach religious, cultural, and social values. He believes these teachings can help inmates grow into positive members of society who can support their families and communities. Throughout Ramadan, a variety of activities took place, including a sports tournament featuring football, volleyball, and chess. There were also informative lectures, religious lessons, and social training programs designed to promote positive values and lifestyles among the inmates. Group iftars were held, allowing inmates to share meals in a friendly environment. In closing, Brigadier General Al Serkal and Colonel Al Naqbi took a moment to recognize and honor the organizations and individuals whose contributions made these initiatives successful. They expressed their hopes for continued success in the future.


Sharjah 24
27-01-2025
- Sharjah 24
SP launches "Capture the Flag" cybersecurity challenge
The event saw the participation of 200 contestants, including university students and information technology specialists. The competition's primary goal is to enhance awareness about cybersecurity and equip young people with valuable skills to face digital security challenges in an engaging and competitive environment. Areas of focus and competition details The competition spans seven key fields: open-source intelligence, digital forensics, decryption, network security testing, web application hacking, reverse engineering, and phishing. Specialised workshops were also held to explain the basics of "Capture the Flag" competitions and tackle electronic phishing. Educational workshops and expert guidance Brigadier Ahmed Haji Al Serkal, Director General of the General Department of Prevention and Community Protection, highlighted that the challenge would run over two days, January 27 and 28, 2025, alongside the "Be Aware" campaign. He added that the competition revolves around participants finding a "flag" — a hidden file or piece of information within a virtual environment. Contestants accumulate points for solving challenges, and the top five with the highest scores will be crowned. The event also includes workshops led by cybersecurity experts to improve participants' skills in tackling contemporary security issues.