Vehicle confiscated and driving licence suspended for three years after footage showed suspect driving against the flow of traffic.
ABU DHABI — The Abu Dhabi Misdemeanour Court has sentenced a motorist to six months in prison and ordered him to pay a Dh100,000 fine after he was caught driving against the direction of traffic while under the influence of alcohol.
The court also ordered the driver’s vehicle confiscated and issued a three-year suspension of his driving licence, which will take effect upon the completion of his prison sentence. Judicial authorities stated that the severe penalties were handed down due to the extreme danger the motorist posed to public safety and other road users.
Traffic surveillance equipment monitored by the Monitoring and Control Centre captured the suspect operating his car recklessly and traveling counter to traffic flow on a major road. Law enforcement officers intercepted the vehicle shortly after the incident was flagged.
Upon being detained, officers observed signs of severe intoxication. Subsequent blood analysis conducted by the Forensic Evidence Laboratory confirmed the presence of alcohol in his system.
During court proceedings, prosecutors submitted the laboratory findings, field police reports, and official surveillance video. The defendant subsequently confessed to all charges.
In its judgment, the court emphasized that the driver’s actions constituted a direct violation of both the Federal Decree-Law on Traffic Regulation and the Crimes and Penalties Law. The judiciary reiterated that strict penalties are necessary to deter reckless behaviour and protect the rights of the public to safe road navigation.
