Luminous gear and red flashlights mandatory for night traffic officers

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

The Acting Inspector General of Police has issued new directives for officers on traffic duty regarding procedures for stopping vehicles at night.  

It was revealed that officers frequently use different types of flashlights when signalling drivers to stop at night, which can cause visibility issues.  The light from the flashlights often strikes drivers’ faces, making it difficult for them to safely control their vehicles. 

Police said this decision was made after observing that there are more possibilities of accidents occurring and a higher risk to traffic officers, particularly due to the lack of reflective jackets.  

In response, the Acting IGP has instructed officers on night traffic duty to wear luminous jackets and gloves to ensure that they are clearly visible to drivers. Officers are also instructed to use the red flashlights currently provided to police stations to signal vehicles to stop, whenever possible.  

Also, the Acting IGP has directed Police HQIs, OICs and traffic OICs to closely monitor whether these new guidelines are being followed during night duties.