Acting Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine yesterday announced that since the launch of Operation Safeway two weeks ago, there has been a significant reduction in all categories of accidents.
He was at the time addressing reporters at a press conference held at his office.
Prior to the launching of Operation Safeway on September 15, the Guyana Police Force had recorded a 33% increase in fatal accidents across the country and a 17% increase in death. As of September 28th, these figures have decreased by 18% and 9%, respectively.
“It is clear that Safeway could not have come at a more opportune moment,” Ramnarine said, while explaining that since the operation was launched there were 1,002 cases of speeding. In terms of speeding and driving under the influence, there have been 2,977 cases.
During this same period, Ramnarine said, 1,206 random breathalyser tests were done and 184 drivers were found above the legal limit of alcohol consumption. He said 1,114 tests were done in the night and 173 drivers were found above the limit. One hundred and three persons have been charged and fined, while 81 cases are still pending.
Twenty-five persons were charged with failing to adhere to sirens, 543 with the use of cellular phones while driving, 2,091 for breaching road service licences regarding loud music in minibuses, 272 for breach of tint regulations and 887 for breach of traffic light signal.
Two drivers were suspended for one year, 17 cases were struck out and four were discharged.
Ramnarine described the reduction of the numbers as commendable. He said, “From the evidence so far, Operation Safeway hasn’t failed, isn’t failing and will not fail.”
For this, he said the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department, the public and other stakeholders must be applauded.
