The issue of unlicensed drivers and vehicles continues to be a problem in Honiara, putting at risk pedestrians and other vehicles on the road.

Many of the unlicensed drivers or vehicles are often involved in reckless driving, their vehicles are unfit to be on the road – and the drivers are just learning how to drive. Police say there is a clear link between unlicensed drivers or vehicles and traffic related offences in Honiara.

Because of this Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at the National Traffic Department (NTD) conducted a major operation in Honiara starting this week.

The joint operation involved other stakeholders, such as the Ministry of Infrastructure (MID), officers of the Honiara City Council and NTD.

Director NTD Superintendent William Foufaka said police detained a good number of vehicles and many are now under investigation.

Superintendent Foufaka said the purpose of this operation is to target the high rate of traffic related offences that are continually occurring in Honiara City.

Mr Foufaka said this includes, inspection of vehicle defects, business licenses, vehicle licenses, driver’s licenses and other related traffic offences.

The joint operation was conducted at two different locations which are White River and Rove junction going up to Ngossi road.

He kindly asks the road users to cooperate with the Traffic Police during such operation to ensure all vehicles are road worthy.