Feb 24 • 15:23 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece To Vima

Ruthless checks during the Clean Monday three-day weekend – Over 16,000 violations

Law enforcement in Greece reported over 16,000 traffic violations during intensive checks over the Clean Monday weekend aimed at ensuring safe travel for holiday-goers.

In Greece, law enforcement agencies carried out rigorous traffic checks during the Clean Monday holiday period, resulting in a staggering total of over 16,000 violations. These targeted efforts were intended to enhance the safety of travelers moving to and from urban centers during the festivities associated with the Greek Carnival and Clean Monday, which marks the beginning of Lent. The inspections focused particularly on dangerous and anti-social behaviors that could lead to serious or fatal traffic accidents.

Among the violations recorded, speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol were highlighted as key concerns, with 3,062 and 502 infractions respectively, representing 21.9% of all violations. Other serious offenses included the use of mobile phones while driving, running red lights, illegal overtaking, and violations of Emergency Lanes. The Greek police, known as ELAS, emphasized the importance of these checks in preventing potentially tragic incidents during a time when many citizens are on the move for celebrations.

The checks ran from February 20 to February 23, culminating in Clean Monday, and involved a total of 1,970 traffic checkpoints throughout the country. This proactive stance by the authorities not only aimed to enforce laws but also served as a reminder about road safety, particularly during periods of heightened traffic, thus reflecting the ongoing commitment to enhance public safety on the roads during high-traffic holidays.

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