59 motorists punished for traffic offences including queue jumping at Woodlands Checkpoint

At least 59 motorists were found to have committed offences including driving against the flow of traffic, crossing double white lines and jumping queues.

For their traffic transgressions, 48 of them were forced to U-turn and made to join the queue again, and 31 of them were referred to the traffic police for further action.

At least 11 foreign-registered vehicles were also banned from entering Singapore.

The enforcement was intended to deter motorists from violating traffic rules and cutting in line at the checkpoint, during a period when heavy traffic was expected for vehicles clearing immigration.

The longer waiting times also came as ICA officers intensified checks against the smuggling of items including vapes, firecrackers and bak kwa, or barbecued pork slices that are a popular snack at Chinese New Year gatherings.

The authorities said they will not hesitate to take firm action against motorists who compromise the safety of other road users, or those who do not comply with officers’ instructions.

Motorists are encouraged to maintain lane discipline when crossing the land checkpoints, said the police and ICA.