At the scene of separate accidents in Oman earlier this week. ROYAL OMAN POLICE

Three Omanis have died in separate traffic accidents involving stray camels in different parts of the country, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) confirmed on Wednesday (March 12). The tragic incidents, which occurred within two days, have renewed calls for stricter enforcement against owners who allow their animals to roam freely on roads. The first accident happened on Monday in Duqm, Al Wusta Governorate, when a vehicle carrying two Omanis collided with a stray camel. Both men, who hailed from Rustaq, died instantly while traveling to work. In a similar accident on Sunday, another Omani man lost his life after his car crashed into a camel in the Wilayat of Ibra, Sharqiyah Governorate.

Public outrage and calls for stricter laws

The accidents have sparked a social media uproar, with many users demanding harsher penalties for camel owners who neglect to control their animals. Critics argue that stray camels pose a serious threat to motorists, especially on roads with poor visibility or inadequate lighting. One Omani resident took to social media, stating, "This is not the first time such an accident has happened. How many more lives must be lost before action is taken?" In response to the growing concerns, the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources has enforced stricter regulations regarding the seizure of stray animals, including camels, horses, cows, and goats. Under these rules, owners of stray camels face fines of up to 100 Omani riyals for retrieving their animals.  Stray animals must also be kept at least one kilometer away from main roads and 500 meters from secondary roads. Additionally, any individual who finds a stray animal on their property or suffers property damage due to loose animals may report it and hand it over to authorities. Each municipality keeps a register documenting every seized animal and its retrieval details. Municipalities must establish holding facilities to house seized animals, ensuring their food, water, and veterinary care. Authorities continue to urge camel owners to be more responsible and ensure their animals are properly contained. The ROP has also advised motorists to remain vigilant, particularly on highways where camel crossings are common. CAM/Expat Media
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