After months of absence, traffic police are back in Analamanga. Motorists must comply with traffic regulations or face immediate sanctions. Three types of vests will distinguish officers according to their function: control, regulation, or intervention.
Traffic police have resumed operations in Analamanga after more than eight months away. At a press meeting yesterday at Tsaralalàna central police station, Police Controller General Seraly Hercule announced the deployment of 520 specially trained officers starting Monday.
"From now on, the law will be enforced without interference or favoritism. Offenders will be sanctioned, regardless of their status," he stated. Officers will wear three distinct types of vests according to their mission and will be identifiable by a number and badge. Road users are urged to avoid any altercation on public roads and to contact competent offices in case of disputes.
48-Hour Deadline
Police Commissioner Alain Adonis Rafalimanana, regional director of public security, clarified that control checkpoints have been established and officers will have official violation tickets and regulatory equipment.
Motorists can be stopped for visible or non-visible infractions and will receive both sanctions and advice. Roadblocks aim to secure travelers and prevent banditry or transport of prohibited items. Vehicles in violation may be impounded, with document retention for three to ten days and fines payable within 48 hours or face arrest.
Police intend to end illegal practices, including failure to comply, driving against traffic, or excessive use of bicycles as collective transport. Fines will be paid at Tsaralalàna central police station for the capital and in communes for peripheral districts.
Authorities claim they want to establish strict discipline and a "familiar" but firm police force to reduce accidents and enforce traffic regulations. Authorities hope that within six months, Analamanga motorists will adopt compliant driving. The priority is restoring order and safety on roads.