The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia announced the arrest of a man in Riyadh after a video circulated online showing him performing dangerous stunts and driving recklessly in a public place. The driver's violations didn't stop there; he also collided with another vehicle and fled the scene, showing a clear disregard for the safety and lives of other road users.
The phenomenon of drifting: from reckless display to full-fledged crime
Drifting, also known as dangerous stunt driving, is a serious social and traffic phenomenon that Saudi authorities are addressing with great firmness. Historically, this practice began as a form of showing off and displaying cars among a segment of young people, but it quickly transformed into a criminal behavior that threatens public safety. This practice typically involves skidding the car at high speeds and changing direction suddenly, often leading to loss of control and resulting in tragic accidents causing deaths, serious injuries, and damage to public and private property.
The significance and impact of the incident: a decisive deterrent message
The significance of this incident lies in its reflection of the vigilance of the security services and their ability to track down offenders even after they flee the scene. The use of videos circulating on social media platforms as evidence has become an effective tool for the authorities, sending a clear message to anyone contemplating endangering the lives of others that justice will inevitably catch up with them. Locally, this measure strengthens the confidence of citizens and residents in the ability of the relevant authorities to enforce order and apply the law, contributing to a safer traffic environment. Regionally, the Kingdom sets an example in its firm approach to these violations, which pose a common challenge in many countries in the region.
Strict penalties and systematic procedures
According to Saudi traffic regulations, drifting is classified as a serious traffic violation that carries severe penalties. For a first offense, the offender is fined heavily and the vehicle is impounded. Repeat offenders face increased penalties, including imprisonment and confiscation of the vehicle used in the drifting. The General Directorate of Traffic confirmed that the necessary legal procedures were taken against the individual apprehended and that he was referred to the appropriate authorities to complete the legal process. This underscores the zero-tolerance policy towards such behaviors that threaten public safety.
