Police To Remain On Duty 24/7 Over New Year

In a statement, the PGP said that the “155 Police Emergency”, “156 Narcotics” and “199 Fire Brigade” hotlines, along with other emergency lines, will provide uninterrupted 24-hour service during the New Year period to ensure that complaints and requests for assistance are handled swiftly.

The police also called on citizens to avoid behaviour that could endanger their own lives or property, as well as that of others, both in traffic and in public spaces during the celebrations.

The measures and warnings shared by the police are as follows:

Drivers are urged not to operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol. If alcohol has been consumed, individuals are advised to seek assistance from a sober acquaintance or use taxi services.

Motorists are warned against speeding, with the police stressing that the priority in traffic should be “not to speed, but to arrive safely at your destination and embrace your loved ones.”

The public is reminded that mobile phones, which are frequently used throughout daily life, can cause serious distractions while driving. Drivers should refrain entirely from using mobile phones while behind the wheel, including making calls or reading and writing messages.

The police highlighted that seat belts are life-saving, particularly in serious injury and major damage traffic accidents.

In line with the Seat Belt Law:

• It is prohibited to transport children under the age of three in motor vehicles that do not have a child car seat.

• Children between 135 and 150 centimetres in height must sit in the rear seat and wear a seat belt, while children under 135 centimetres must be seated in a child safety seat mounted in the rear seat and secured with a seat belt.

• Children shorter than 150 centimetres are prohibited from sitting in the front seat of motor vehicles.

• Everyone travelling in a motor vehicle must wear a seat belt at all times.

The police also reminded that drivers and passengers of motorcycles, including motorised three-wheeled vehicles and ATVs, are required to wear protective helmets to ensure their safety.

Citizens were encouraged to report, without hesitation, any drivers who operate vehicles in a manner that endangers life or property or who violate traffic regulations.

The PGP strongly warned against the use of firearms during New Year celebrations, noting that fired bullets can cause serious harm to people in surrounding areas or in high-rise buildings. The use of firearms is a criminal offence and may result, depending on circumstances, in prison sentences ranging from seven to ten years. The police reiterated that a zero-tolerance policy will be applied and that legal action will be taken against offenders.

The public was also advised to check home security systems before leaving their residences, ensure that any security cameras are active and functioning, lock doors and windows, and inspect electrical appliances and sockets to prevent fire hazards.

The General Directorate of Police stressed that, alongside police measures, the compliance of drivers and pedestrians with traffic rules is vital to preventing loss of life, serious injuries and material damage in traffic accidents.

Concluding its statement, the PGP said, “Our greatest wish is that joy does not turn into sorrow and that no unwanted incidents occur,” extending New Year greetings to the public and wishing that 2026 will be beneficial for the country.