Police drone catches dozens of Riga drivers dodging traffic jams illegally
During a road safety campaign, Latvian police used a drone to catch 31 Riga drivers who bypassed traffic jams by driving through bus lanes or safety islands, resulting in 97 administrative violation cases over three days.
Latvia's State Police conducted intensified traffic checks in Riga this week as part of the "ROADPOL Safety Days" campaign, deploying drones to spot drivers breaking road rules.
Aggressive driving caught from above
Officers from the State Police's Technical Support Management Division used drone footage over three days to identify 31 drivers who bypassed vehicles stuck in traffic by driving through bus lanes or safety islands. Such maneuvers are classified as aggressive driving, punishable by a fine of 70 to 280 euros and six penalty points.
Other violations also recorded
Beyond aggressive driving, police also documented drivers running red lights, ignoring road signs, exceeding speed limits, and failing to wear seatbelts. In total, the three-day operation resulted in 97 administrative violation proceedings.
The State Police urged drivers to follow traffic rules, obey signals and signs, respect speed limits, and avoid bypassing traffic jams where prohibited. Authorities said they will continue enhanced traffic monitoring, including the use of technical tools such as drones, to detect violations early and prevent dangerous situations on the road.
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