By Shadiah Abdullahi

Thirty drivers involved in a bizarre and highly-dangerous joyriding session have been banned from driving for three years. On top of that, 50 of the vehi­cles taking part in the stunt have been seized by Dubai Police, who intend to put them to better use. For instead of being a danger on the roads, the seized vehicles will start a new life contributing to road safety - they are to be converted into police patrol vehicles!! The move was based on orders issued by General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and UAE Minister of Defence and Head of Dubai Public Safety and Security.

The joyriders' insane prank consisted of smearing an inter­change with oil and then showing off to each other by skidding on it. According to Major General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Sheikh Mohammed ordered that the cars be   converted   into   police patrolling vehicles. •'Thirty of these drivers will not be able to drive in the next three years as punishment for their recklessness. We have taken steps to make sure that they will not be able to get licences from other emirates," he said.

The incident took place last month when a group of youngsters met late at night and decided to show each other their skills at driving recklessly. They poured oil on the tarmac of Al Warqa interchange in  Rashidiya   and   performed stunts, attempting to outdo each other with dangerous manoeuvres.

The police reached the scene and confiscated their vehicles. Maj. Gen. Dhahi said these harsh measures were taken to curb such acts. "These young men need to respect the laws and such measures will force them to do so. They not only endangered their own lives, but the lives of others as well, "he said.

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