Government Targets 385 Early Offenders as New Vehicle Seizure Laws are Drafted

The Government is set to introduce a “zero tolerance” policy for motorists under the influence, with new measures including the immediate seizure of vehicles and the suspension of driving licences.

During a strategic meeting in Port-Louis on Wednesday, 4 March, Transport Minister Osman Mahomed chaired a high-level committee to finalise a new Policy Paper.

The document, which will soon be submitted to the Cabinet, aims to significantly toughen the legislative arsenal against those who drive under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.

Immediate Sanctions

Under the proposed legal framework, drivers testing positive for prohibited substances will face the immediate impounding of their vehicles and the loss of their driving privileges. Minister Mahomed emphasised that these harsher penalties are designed to serve as a powerful deterrent.

“These sanctions must not only punish, but above all, prevent,” the Minister stated, noting that the primary goal is to bolster road safety and discourage the consumption of psychoactive substances before getting behind the wheel.

Inter-Agency Cooperation

The strategic session brought together key stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the new laws, including representatives from:

• The Prime Minister’s Office
• The Mauritius Police Force
• The State Law Office
• The National Land Transport Authority
• The National Road Safety Council
• The Traffic Management and Road Safety Unit

Early Success of Penalty Points

This crackdown follows the reintroduction of the Penalty Points System (PPS) on 31 January.

Early data indicates the system is already in active use; as of 24 February, 385 offenders had already been issued fines and penalty points.

The government maintains that these measures—combining financial penalties, point deductions, and vehicle immobilisation—are part of a global strategy to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries.

Once the Policy Paper is approved by the Council of Ministers, it will serve as the foundation for drafting the final legal provisions.

Source: Defi Media