A 32-year-old taxi driver was yesterday fined and had his licence suspended for driving under the influence and hitting a car that was part of the presidential convoy.
The first charge alleged that on August 27th, at Houston Public Road, Kumar Changur drove PMM 9452 in a manner dangerous to the public.
It was also alleged that on the same date at Houston Public Road, Changur drove the car while his breath alcohol level exceeded the legal limit.
Changur pleaded guilty to both charges when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in Georgetown.
The police’s case is that around 5.20 am, Changur was proceeding north on an eastern carriageway of the Houston Public Road and collided with the rear of a motor vehicle, PWW 5770, which is owned by the State of Guyana and attached to the Presidential Guard Service. As a result, both drivers were given breathalyser tests and Changur’s breath alcohol level was discovered to be over the legal limit.
His attorney explained to the court that on the night before the accident, Changur drank a few beers. He added that at the time of the accident, Changur’s windscreen had been splashed with water. He said the accident occurred as the man attempted to brake and instead shot forward and hit the vehicle in front of him.
After Changur’s guilty plea, Chief Magistrate McLennan fined him a total of $57,500 or 11 weeks in prison if he cannot pay the fine. The magistrate also suspended his licence for three months.
