The Emirati citizens and society have been suffering the consequences of the ongoing Iran vs US-Israel war. From missile attacks to loss of civilians, the UAE authorities have been headfirst tackling all issues, existing or developing, to ensure normalcy and safety for its residents in times of distress. Now, police across the UAE have launched a crackdown on motorists using illegally modified cars and motorcycles. This initiative comes after locals reported late-night panic caused by the loud ‘explosion’ noises created by the engine bursts resembling bombings or explosions in residential neighbourhoods. Numerous residents noted that the sudden noises, often heard late at night, cause massive alarm as they resemble the sound of blasts, sending them into panic. With the regional developments escalating and showing no signs of pause, some residents feared the noises could be linked to security developments before realising that they were being caused by the vehicles producing the deliberate ‘backfire’ sounds. According to authorities, these disturbances were caused by teenagers and young drivers revving their engines or using vehicles that have been modified with exhaust systems designed to produce the explosive-like sounds. This has prompted some residents to mistake the sudden noises for explosions or missile strikes in the middle of the night.
Police to the rescue
Complaints had arrived from residents in parts of Dubai and Sharjah after they heard loud bursts of engine noise late at night, which echoed throughout the residential streets.Police clarified that the sounds reported in numerous neighbourhoods were linked to reckless driving and modified vehicles and not any security threat. Officials reassured the public that the UAE remains safe and secure, while authorities continue to monitor the developments. They also added that such behaviour is illegal and constitutes a serious disturbance to the public peace. Therefore, patrolling has been intensified in these neighbourhoods.
Tracking illegal modifications
Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police shared that authorities are deploying advanced monitoring systems and enforcement campaigns to tackle the problem. “Our aim is to enhance road safety and ensure the comfort and tranquillity of residents by addressing violations such as excessive vehicle noise and illegal modifications,” he said.In Sharjah as well, monitoring and enforcement have been intensified following complaints from residents about loud vehicles causing a ruckus in the area. Targeted inspection campaigns and checkpoints have been deployed to detect vehicles with illegal modifications, said Brigadier Khalifa Al Khassouni, Director of the Central Region Department at Sharjah Police.
Strict fines for violators
According to the UAE traffic regulations, motorists caught driving vehicles that create excessive noise face a Dh2,000 fine and 12 black points along with possible vehicle impoundment. If the vehicles have been modified without proper authorisation then owners may face additional penalties including confiscation and release fees, totalling Dh10,000. Moreover, police urged the parents to monitor teenagers and young drivers to prevent reckless behaviour that could disturb the communities.
