Police intercept minibus packed with gas cylinders in Dubai
Iain Hoey
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Police intercept modified vehicle during inspection
Dubai Police have impounded a minibus in Al Quoz Industrial Area after it was found transporting gas cylinders without approval.
The Khaleej Times reported that the vehicle was stopped during a routine traffic patrol inspection campaign.
Officers discovered that the vehicle’s passenger seats had been removed to make space for dozens of cylinders, which the authorities said created a direct hazard for both the driver and other road users.
Brigadier Jumaa Bin Suwaidan, Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic, said: “A collision, leak or unsafe storage could lead to devastating fires or explosions.”
The vehicle has been seized and the driver has been referred for legal proceedings.
Dubai Police issue warning on hazardous transport
According to the police, transporting hazardous materials without a licence is a criminal offence under UAE law.
The force added that such practices can result in severe consequences for drivers and the public.
Bin Suwaidan stressed that traffic campaigns are being increased across the emirate to deter unsafe behaviour.
He said: “We are committed to monitoring behaviour that threatens road safety and community well-being.”
Public asked to report unsafe activity
Dubai Police have urged residents to assist in identifying unsafe transport practices.
The force explained that incidents can be reported through the “We Are All Police” service on 901 or via the Dubai Police smart app.
Bin Suwaidan added: “Community awareness and proactive involvement are key to improving security and safety on the emirate’s roads.”
Previous cases of gas cylinder seizures
The Khaleej Times reported that this is not the first time such action has been taken in Al Quoz.
Last year, Dubai Police confiscated a passenger bus that had been loaded with gas cylinders in violation of safety regulations.
The earlier incident also involved the modification of a passenger vehicle to carry compressed gas cylinders without proper authorisation.
UAE safety regulations for gas cylinder transport
The Khaleej Times explained that Dubai Municipality regulations impose strict requirements on transporting compressed gas cylinders.
Vehicles used for this purpose must be licensed and authorised by the authorities.
Operators must ensure that the company’s name is displayed clearly on the vehicle.
Guidelines also state that gas cylinders must be stored upright and different types of gas should not be mixed during transport.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The case highlights the risks posed when hazardous materials are transported without safety controls.
It also shows the role of law enforcement in reducing the risk of fire and explosion in urban areas.
For fire safety professionals, the incident illustrates how improper storage and transport of compressed gases can lead to emergencies requiring coordinated response.
Awareness of local regulations and enforcement measures can inform safety planning and incident prevention strategies.
Dubai Police seize unsafe gas cylinder vehicle in Al Quoz: Summary
Dubai Police impounded a minibus carrying gas cylinders in Al Quoz Industrial Area.
The Khaleej Times reported that the vehicle had been modified to carry dozens of cylinders without approval.
Authorities said the removal of seats to create storage space posed direct fire and explosion risks.
Brigadier Jumaa Bin Suwaidan said a leak, collision or unsafe storage could lead to devastating fires or explosions.
The driver was referred to the authorities for legal action.
Dubai Police stated that transporting hazardous materials without approval is a criminal offence with severe consequences.
Traffic inspection campaigns have been stepped up to detect unsafe transport practices.
Residents were asked to report suspicious or unsafe activity through the “We Are All Police” service or the Dubai Police app.
A similar case occurred last year when a bus was seized in Al Quoz carrying gas cylinders illegally.
Dubai Municipality regulations require licensed vehicles, clear company identification, and proper upright storage of cylinders during transport.