NPA begins new penalty system for truck entry violations, waives sanction for 500 past offenders

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced that it will begin a new penalty system for truck entry violations and infractions at the ports from Monday May 27, 2024.

This is contained in a notice issued by Trucks Transit Parks Limited on Tuesday May 21, 2024 sighted by Maritime Today Online.

According to the notice, over 500 trucks have been identified for various offences at the port gate and awaiting penalties.

However, the NPA said it decided to waive sanctions for past offenders to allow them and other truck operators a fresh start under the new penalty system.

To ensure compliance with the new rules, NPA listed common violations that will attract penalties to include, trying to enter the port with trucks not in the correct status, indicating proxy operations and not following the standard operating procedure (SOP).

Others are, “Attempting port entry without MSS stickers, or using fake or photocopied MSS stickers.

“Attempt to enter the port without properly affixing the MSS sticker to the truck’s windshield.

“Approaching the port without properly inscribed number plates on the truck’s cabin and bonnet.

“Trying to enter with the wrong truck or ticket category, such as using an empty container for export or vice versa.”

NPA warned that any truck found in breach of these regulations will face a 90-day suspension for both the truck’s number plate and the profile used for booking.

It urged all truck operators to strictly adhere to the standard operating procedures for port entry to avoid penalties and consequent disruptions to their operations.