More than 1500 motorists are barred from driving for the next twelve months for committing serious traffic violations in Sofala.

The scenario comes at a time when the number of traffic accidents, which have mostly resulted in deaths, is tending to increase in the country, and the government has been taking punitive measures to reverse the scenario.

Among several infractions, the drivers penalized were found to be driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and sign violation.

The delegate of the National Institute of Road Transport, INATRO, in Sofala, José Chilevo said, cited by Radio Mozambique that most of the confiscated driving licenses are of chapa drivers.

"These inhibitions or suspensions concerned both private and professional drivers," the source noted.

The official said that compared to the same period last year, the number of drivers disqualified shows an increase of 40%.