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RAK Police Tighten Security at Awafi Festival

RAS AL KHAIMAH - Security measures have been stepped up and patrolling intensified at Awafi where a large number of people are coming everyday to witness the ongoing sand dune racing competition.

More patrols have also been deployed in the area to control the traffic as many motorists and families were flocking to the area to watch the three-week-long adrenaline-pumping motor racing event.

Col. Khalfan Naye’e bin Hafesh, chief of the Operations Department at RAK Police, said more officers and traffic patrol vehicles at Al Awafi have been pressed into service to ensure the safety of the visitors and their belongings and to enable the smooth movement of traffic in the area.

He noted that during the past Awafi festivals, visitors had reported cases of violence and thefts, especially when unknown gangs of youths entered their tents and sometimes broke open into their parked vehicles and took away valuables.

“No thefts or indecent acts are expected during this year’s events as the police and security officers are on the alert to curb such activities,” said bin Hafesh.

Last year, careless drivers in Awafi, especially youngsters, had caused accidents as they drove recklessly, but this time the traffic patrols are all over the place to curb the errant drivers, he said.

The officer called on Awafi visitors, especially the youth, to abide by the traffic rules and regulations by driving only at the designated places and to also behave decently so as not to offend others.

Students and children have been advised not to visit Awafi during the night.

Motorcycle riding has been cited as a major problem in Awafi.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com