Latest news with #MohammedAl-Subhan
Zawya
13-03-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Kuwait's new traffic law introduces community service as alternative penalty
KUWAIT CITY - Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Subhan, Chairman of the Unified Traffic Week Committee for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, has confirmed that the newly approved Traffic Law No. 5/2025 introduces alternative penalties as a key amendment. These penalties can replace the original sanctions at the discretion of the judiciary. For instance, a judge may convert the original penalty into community service, tailored to the violator's profession and qualifications. This service, which can last up to one year, requires eight hours of work per day without compensation. Additionally, if a serious violation results in damage to public funds, the violator may be required to repair the damage at their own expense. Judges also have the authority to combine multiple service penalties, which take effect immediately upon the issuance of the ruling. Spatial Impoundment Al-Subhan explained that vehicle impoundment remains applicable in 27 cases, as before. A new regulatory decision will introduce the concept of "physical impoundment," where a tracking device is installed in the vehicle, and fees are imposed based on the violation committed. If the spatial impoundment conditions are violated, a fine of 50 dinars will be levied, and the vehicle will be moved to a traffic impoundment garage. Additional fines will apply if the tracking device is damaged or lost. Al-Subhan emphasized that violating physical impoundment is a serious offense, and the violator must designate a fixed location for the vehicle, ensuring it does not move from that spot. Al-Subhan also revealed that Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, will issue a regulatory decision limiting the number of vehicles citizens and residents can own before the new traffic law takes effect on April 22. Responding to concerns about potential discrimination, Al-Subhan clarified that such measures are not discriminatory but fall within the state's sovereign authority to regulate in the public interest, similar to administrative deportation policies. Accuracy of AI Cameras The accuracy of artificial intelligence (AI) cameras in detecting violations is 99%, with human oversight to ensure precision. Violations such as failing to wear a seatbelt, using a mobile phone, exceeding speed limits, or placing children in the front seat are documented by AI and reviewed by humans. Notifications for such violations are sent to the perpetrator within 48 to 72 hours. Al-Subhan confirmed that any citizen or resident can file a complaint about a violation, either directly or indirectly, through the Ministry of Interior's 'Sahl' application or by visiting the Violations Investigation Department. Complaints are thoroughly reviewed, and violations may be canceled if the claimant's rights are proven. Ministry patrols are equipped with cameras to verify claims of wrongful violations, ensuring the rights of both security personnel and violators are protected. Fines Under the New Law Addressing concerns about the severity of fines under the new law, Al-Subhan stated that Kuwait's fines are not the highest among neighboring countries. Some GCC countries impose stricter penalties. The General Traffic Department conducted extensive studies and public opinion polls before finalizing the law, which was reviewed by the judiciary, the Fatwa and Legislation Authority, and the Public Prosecution. The resulting fines aim to deter reckless driving and serious violations, such as running red lights, which endanger lives. The 2025 Unified Traffic Week for GCC countries will carry the slogan 'Driving without Accidents,' continuing the theme from 2024. Al-Subhan highlighted that most accidents result from driver inattention, often due to mobile phone use. Since 1984, Traffic Weeks across GCC countries have successfully improved driver behavior and road safety. Congestion and Traffic Behavior Regarding traffic congestion, Al-Subhan acknowledged ongoing road expansions and bridge constructions to alleviate the issue. However, he stressed that personal traffic behavior, such as crossing road lines or blocking others, remains a significant problem. Kuwait has a long history of traffic regulation, dating back to 1930, with laws evolving over the decades to address changing needs. Under the new law, settlement orders for violations now range from 15 to 150 dinars, up from the previous range of 5 to 50 dinars. Habitual violators, especially those committing serious offenses, will be referred to court without the option of settlement. Violations and Accountability Al-Subhan clarified that vehicle owners are held responsible for violations, even if someone else was driving at the time. If a vehicle owner disputes a fine, they must identify the driver during the violation. He shared an example of a woman fined 30,000 dinars for violations committed by her son's friends, who were driving her vehicle without her knowledge. Seat Belt Law Enforcement Al-Subhan reiterated that drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts, with vehicle owners held accountable for compliance. With the new law's implementation, patrols and control rooms have observed increased adherence to seat belt regulations. He noted that it is now rare to see drivers or passengers without seat belts. In conclusion, Al-Subhan emphasized the importance of the new law and its stricter fines, given the lax attitude some had toward the previous penalties. In 2024 alone, Kuwait recorded 66,000 accidents, averaging 200 to 300 daily, with 28 to 30 injuries and 284 fatalities, including 11 children. The new law aims to curb these alarming statistics and enhance road safety. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( arabtimes
Arab Times
12-03-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait's New Traffic Law Introduces Community Service as Alternative Penalty
KUWAIT CITY, Mar 12: Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Subhan, Chairman of the Unified Traffic Week Committee for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, has confirmed that the newly approved Traffic Law No. 5/2025 introduces alternative penalties as a key amendment. These penalties can replace the original sanctions at the discretion of the judiciary. For instance, a judge may convert the original penalty into community service, tailored to the violator's profession and qualifications. This service, which can last up to one year, requires eight hours of work per day without compensation. Additionally, if a serious violation results in damage to public funds, the violator may be required to repair the damage at their own expense. Judges also have the authority to combine multiple service penalties, which take effect immediately upon the issuance of the ruling. Spatial Impoundment Al-Subhan explained that vehicle impoundment remains applicable in 27 cases, as before. A new regulatory decision will introduce the concept of "physical impoundment," where a tracking device is installed in the vehicle, and fees are imposed based on the violation committed. If the spatial impoundment conditions are violated, a fine of 50 dinars will be levied, and the vehicle will be moved to a traffic impoundment garage. Additional fines will apply if the tracking device is damaged or lost. Al-Subhan emphasized that violating physical impoundment is a serious offense, and the violator must designate a fixed location for the vehicle, ensuring it does not move from that spot. Al-Subhan also revealed that Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, will issue a regulatory decision limiting the number of vehicles citizens and residents can own before the new traffic law takes effect on April 22. Responding to concerns about potential discrimination, Al-Subhan clarified that such measures are not discriminatory but fall within the state's sovereign authority to regulate in the public interest, similar to administrative deportation policies. Accuracy of AI Cameras The accuracy of artificial intelligence (AI) cameras in detecting violations is 99%, with human oversight to ensure precision. Violations such as failing to wear a seatbelt, using a mobile phone, exceeding speed limits, or placing children in the front seat are documented by AI and reviewed by humans. Notifications for such violations are sent to the perpetrator within 48 to 72 hours. Al-Subhan confirmed that any citizen or resident can file a complaint about a violation, either directly or indirectly, through the Ministry of Interior's 'Sahl' application or by visiting the Violations Investigation Department. Complaints are thoroughly reviewed, and violations may be canceled if the claimant's rights are proven. Ministry patrols are equipped with cameras to verify claims of wrongful violations, ensuring the rights of both security personnel and violators are protected. Fines Under the New Law Addressing concerns about the severity of fines under the new law, Al-Subhan stated that Kuwait's fines are not the highest among neighboring countries. Some GCC countries impose stricter penalties. The General Traffic Department conducted extensive studies and public opinion polls before finalizing the law, which was reviewed by the judiciary, the Fatwa and Legislation Authority, and the Public Prosecution. The resulting fines aim to deter reckless driving and serious violations, such as running red lights, which endanger lives. The 2025 Unified Traffic Week for GCC countries will carry the slogan 'Driving without Accidents,' continuing the theme from 2024. Al-Subhan highlighted that most accidents result from driver inattention, often due to mobile phone use. Since 1984, Traffic Weeks across GCC countries have successfully improved driver behavior and road safety. Congestion and Traffic Behavior Regarding traffic congestion, Al-Subhan acknowledged ongoing road expansions and bridge constructions to alleviate the issue. However, he stressed that personal traffic behavior, such as crossing road lines or blocking others, remains a significant problem. Kuwait has a long history of traffic regulation, dating back to 1930, with laws evolving over the decades to address changing needs. Under the new law, settlement orders for violations now range from 15 to 150 dinars, up from the previous range of 5 to 50 dinars. Habitual violators, especially those committing serious offenses, will be referred to court without the option of settlement. Violations and Accountability Al-Subhan clarified that vehicle owners are held responsible for violations, even if someone else was driving at the time. If a vehicle owner disputes a fine, they must identify the driver during the violation. He shared an example of a woman fined 30,000 dinars for violations committed by her son's friends, who were driving her vehicle without her knowledge. Seat Belt Law Enforcement Al-Subhan reiterated that drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts, with vehicle owners held accountable for compliance. With the new law's implementation, patrols and control rooms have observed increased adherence to seat belt regulations. He noted that it is now rare to see drivers or passengers without seat belts. In conclusion, Al-Subhan emphasized the importance of the new law and its stricter fines, given the lax attitude some had toward the previous penalties. In 2024 alone, Kuwait recorded 66,000 accidents, averaging 200 to 300 daily, with 28 to 30 injuries and 284 fatalities, including 11 children. The new law aims to curb these alarming statistics and enhance road safety.
Zawya
13-02-2025
- Zawya
Kuwait deports 74 expats for serious traffic violations in 2024
KUWAIT CITY - Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Subhan, Chairman of the Unified Gulf Traffic Week Committee 2025, revealed that 74 expatriates were deported in 2024 due to serious traffic law violations, including driving without a license and engaging in hazardous driving behaviors. Al-Subhan also highlighted that a total of 61,553 violations were recorded, primarily related to seat belt use and mobile phone usage while driving. During an appearance on Kuwait TV's Good Morning program, Brigadier Al-Subhan explained that the recent amendment to the traffic law was prompted by rising accident rates, traffic violations, and fatalities. The law is considered crucial for safeguarding individuals' lives and property, as stated in the explanatory memorandum. Al-Subhan pointed out that all Gulf countries periodically update their traffic laws to stay in sync with evolving circumstances and to deter lawbreakers. In Kuwait, 90% of traffic accidents are attributed to inattention, especially from using mobile phones while driving. These distractions often result in injuries, deaths, and significant damage to public and private property. The Ministry of Interior records between 200 and 300 accidents daily, with 28 to 30 injuries on average. The previous fine for using a mobile phone while driving was 5 dinars, but Brigadier Al-Subhan noted that this amount was insufficient to deter offenders. As a result, the traffic law amendment has raised the fine to 75 dinars to better discourage the behavior. In preparation for the new law's implementation on April 22, Brigadier Al-Subhan revealed that the government has allowed a three-month grace period to raise awareness about the changes. To educate the public, the General Traffic Department has created awareness teams that conduct educational seminars at universities, schools, and malls, while also utilizing media platforms like TV, radio, newspapers, and websites. Addressing misconceptions about child safety, Brigadier Al-Subhan clarified that the amended traffic law prioritizes child protection. Children under the age of ten are prohibited from sitting in the front seat. Additionally, children must be securely fastened in the back seat with a seat belt, and no child under ten can be left unattended in a vehicle. Violations of these regulations carry a fine of 50 dinars. If a child is injured due to neglect, the driver could face criminal charges under the Child Protection Law, which could result in imprisonment for six months and a fine of 500 dinars. Brigadier Al-Subhan also discussed the role of surveillance technology in enforcing traffic laws. Kuwait has installed approximately 1,000 cameras across roads to monitor violations such as speeding, running red lights, and seat belt use. Notably, 252 cameras equipped with artificial intelligence have been deployed to detect mobile phone usage while driving, seat belt violations, and line-crossing at intersections. The implementation of these AI cameras has yielded significant results. Between September and the beginning of this year, the cameras recorded 61,000 violations, primarily related to seat belts and mobile phone usage. However, there was a noticeable reduction in violations as drivers began adhering to the law, suggesting that the increased penalties and surveillance have had a positive impact on road safety. Brigadier Al-Subhan also discussed penalties for reckless driving, including a fine of up to 150 dinars for reckless gatherings. Repeat offenders may face legal action, with fines ranging from 600 to 1,000 dinars, or imprisonment for one to three years. Additionally, offenders may be required to participate in community service or awareness courses. According to Ministry of Health statistics, traffic accidents remain the second leading cause of death in Kuwait, following heart disease. Last year, 284 people died in traffic-related incidents, including 11 children under the age of 14. Additionally, 90 of the fatalities involved run-over accidents. The Ministry of Interior's efforts to improve road safety through the new traffic law amendments, increased surveillance, and public awareness campaigns are aimed at reducing the number of accidents and fatalities, and ensuring greater protection for all road users in Kuwait.
Arab Times
28-01-2025
- Arab Times
Court awaits repeat traffic offenders
KUWAIT CITY, Jan 28: Brigadier Mohammed Al-Subhan from the General Traffic Department says the recent amendments to the traffic law differentiate between reconciliation orders and court referrals for serious violations. The department will accept reconciliation and payment for violations directly at the General Traffic Department. However, violators who commit multiple serious offenses will be referred to court. In an interview with Al-Akhbar Channel, Brigadier Al-Subhan explained that serious violations referred to court will carry fines ranging from KD 600 to KD 1,000, with prison sentences ranging from one to three years. For example, a reconciliation order for running a red light costs KD 150, but if the case is referred to court, the fine will not be less than KD 600. Serious violations include reckless driving, racing, negligent driving, running a red light, driving in the opposite direction on highways or ring roads, and driving 'backwards.' Previously, the fine used to be KD 5 but it is now set at KD 150. If a settlement cannot be reached at the Traffic Department, the case will be referred to court. In a related development, the Security Media Department of the Ministry of Interior announced that, in line with the Directorate General of Security Relations and Media's commitment to delivering awareness messages to all segments of society, six key languages have been included in its comprehensive campaign to raise awareness about the new amendments to the traffic law - English, Persian, Hindi, Bengali, Urdu, and Tagalog. The campaign aims to promote traffic and legal awareness, clarify the amended provisions of the Traffic Law, and contribute to enhancing traffic safety and compliance with regulations. This is part of the ministry's plan to reduce traffic accidents and create a safer traffic environment. The ministry affirmed that the campaign will use a variety of traditional media outlets and social media platforms, and visual and auditory awareness materials will be distributed in multiple languages. This reflects the ministry's commitment to providing a comprehensive legal environment that embraces Kuwait's cultural and linguistic diversity.
