Police fine average of 60 drivers a day in first half of 2026

Maldives Police Service has disclosed that an average of 60 drivers were fined daily during the first six months of this year.

According to statistics released by the Police on Monday, a total of 21,354 vehicles had been inspected by the end of June. Of these, 10,878 vehicles were issued fines, while 8,740 motorists received verbal warnings and advice.

The Police said that, on average, 118 vehicles were inspected daily through the end of June, resulting in approximately 60 fines each day. The figures indicate that for every 100 vehicles inspected during the six-month period, around 51 were fined, while 41 drivers were issued cautions.

Additionally, as part of efforts to address parking violations without resorting to towing, the Police made a total of 23,608 telephone calls to vehicle owners during the period.

Despite these measures, the statistics show that 3,417 vehicles were towed for illegal parking, 77 for dangerous driving, 1,052 for driving without a valid license, and 32 for unauthorized modifications. A further 71 vehicles were towed for operating in restricted zones, while another 32 were impounded for various other traffic-related offences.

Of the 3,417 vehicles towed for illegal parking, the overwhelming majority were motorcycles, accounting for 3,336 cases. The remaining 81 vehicles towed were four-wheeled vehicles.

The police also reported that 1,080 vehicles were relocated to alternative locations after prior notice had been given, mainly in connection with official events and ceremonies.

As part of efforts to enforce traffic regulations and maintain public safety, the police established 998 checkpoints by the middle of this month. In addition, officers carried out 10,263 traffic management operations in school zones and on public roads.

Police statistics show that the most common reason for issuing fines was the non-payment of annual vehicle fees, which accounted for 2,249 violations.

The Police further noted that motorists were also fined for expired insurance and roadworthiness certificates, driving without a valid license, and failing to comply with traffic signs. Other offences included irregularities involving license plates, using mobile phones while driving, and violations of taxi regulations.