Police pulled over more than 45,200 vehicles and collected almost $100,000 in fines in the first week of enforcing the new traffic law, a police spokesman said yesterday.

Kirt Chantharith said officers issued 21,159 fines (78 per cent have been paid), while the rest of the motorists pulled over were “educated” and let go.

Just over half of those stopped were riding motorbikes, while 800 motorbikes and 13 cars were impounded for not having licence plates.

Road deaths, he added, had dropped 26 per cent in the past week, compared to the same period last year.

The new code, enforced since January 1, brings tougher fines and stricter regulations.

However, in response to criticism, Prime Minister Hun Sen this week scrapped the need for people with motorbikes 125cc or lower to be licensed.

Chantharith said the premier recently met with the National Traffic Safety Committee to discuss the law’s implementation, including whether or not monks should wear helmets, which are mandatory for passengers under the new code.