*MEDIA STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has taken immediate action against individuals featured in controversial videos circulating on social media engaging in conduct which is deemed to be a risk to public safety. Such conduct is a blatant disregard for road safety measures, traffic regulations, and, most importantly, human life.
The individuals were summoned to undergo showcause proceedings pursuant to Regulation 30 of the Land Transport (Driver) Regulations 2000. Both individuals’ licences were suspended based on their conduct which were captured on recording devices and made public via social media platforms.
The Authority is warning all road users, especially drivers, against engaging in reckless activities that endanger the lives of others.
While some may view such acts as entertaining for social media, the reality is far graver—these actions place human lives at significant risk. Reckless driving for personal gratification or "fun" is not only irresponsible but also an utter disgrace.
Lives are at risk when you choose to disregard road safety measures and engage in careless driving behaviours. This critical message is one the Authority, in partnership with the Fiji Police Force and other stakeholders, works tirelessly to reinforce: every life on our roads matters. Road safety is everyone’s responsibiity. Whether you are a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, everyone deserves to feel safe on our roads.
Engaging in behaviours that deliberately flout traffic regulations and compromise road safety is unacceptable.
When individuals willfully endanger others, they demonstrate a disregard for the lives of their fellow road users, a behaviour the LTA considers completely intolerable. The Authority is urging all road users to think twice before engaging in any behaviour that could lead to harm.
The LTA is reminding all drivers that careless and dangerous driving behaviours will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The Authority also acknowledges the role of the public in reporting these dangerous and careless driving incidents that were captured on social media. These reports and concerns are critical to identifying and addressing road safety risks. However, we also urge the public to exercise sound judgment when interacting with enforcement officers.
Obstructing an officer in the performance of their duties constitutes an offence under Section 75(5) of the Land Transport Act 1998. Those found guilty of such obstruction are liable to penalties as prescribed by law. It is vital to understand that enforcement officers are carrying out their duties to ensure compliance with traffic laws and promote safer roads for all users.
The Land Transport Act 1998, specifically under Section 75(1), also empowers police officers or authorised officers to examine any motor vehicle or trailer reasonably suspected of being used in connection with an offence under the Act. It also allows officers to enter premises without a warrant if they believe the vehicle is located there and to remain on-site for inspection purposes.
Actions that obstruct or interfere with their duties undermine the Authority’s ongoing efforts to curb road accidents and save lives.
Dangerous driving and non-compliance with traffic regulations remain significant contributors to road accidents. It is for this reason the LTA is calling on all Fijians to work collaboratively with our enforcement officers and to respect the processes in place to uphold road safety standards.
The LTA reiterates its commitment to taking all reports of such activities seriously and acting swiftly to address violations. These efforts aim to promote safe and responsible driving on Fiji’s roads.
Irimaia Rokosawa
Chief Executive Officer
Land Transport Authority
27 November 2024
Mr Irimaia Rokosawa
Chief Executive Officer