Fitiris urges traffic policing focused on preventing crashes and saving lives

Nicosia, Cyprus. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris said on Friday that preventing crashes and protecting lives, rather than issuing penalties alone, should guide traffic enforcement. Addressing a press conference for Road Safety Week, he urged police to target dangerous driving and locations with higher risks more effectively.

Deployment and coordination

Fitiris said the government continued to prioritise fewer road crashes, particularly fatal ones. Achieving that goal, he said, demanded ongoing work, cooperation among authorities and repeated reviews of measures already in place.

He said particular attention was being given to using police staff and resources more effectively, with traffic officers assigned where their presence could make the greatest difference.

“Checks and fines are necessary, but they are not an end in themselves,” Fitiris said.

He added that the main test of effective policing should be its success in curbing dangerous behaviour and preventing crashes.

According to the minister, the justice ministry was cooperating with the transport ministry and other relevant bodies to strengthen coordination, evaluate interventions and remedy weaknesses under the National Road Safety Strategic Plan 2021–2030.

Drivers’ responsibilities and education

Fitiris stressed that motorists also had a role in road safety. He said observing traffic rules should be a deliberate everyday decision, not merely a reaction to possible fines.

He also emphasised education on road safety and campaigns to raise awareness, especially among younger people.

The minister commended the police and ERB Insurance for their long-running partnership on road safety initiatives, while also praising traffic officers for the work they carry out each day.