Dear Editor,
No doubt, with the recent spate of accidents caused by trucks, especially, the Guyana Police Force would embark on some temporary comedy show, which would yield some results, but because of inconsistency, no doubt, the situation would return to normal gradually. Despite the opening of new roads, drivers continue to recklessly drive as if they are above the law, endangering themselves and other lives. Because of the rapid development in the construction sector, there is a huge demand for stones, sand, cement, etc., and truck drivers are in a rush to make more trips. Many lack the experience, or do not fully understand the mechanics of the truck to calculate braking distance with and without load, and this causes the trucks to become uncontrollable. The government made a big fuss about traffic cameras, and to date, I’m wondering what has become of that project and if anyone squandered the monies allocated with support from individuals within the government.
Editor, I traveled a lot to various places and would observed the police at various locations. When one believe that their presence would curb the constant mayhem occurring on the roadways, my opinion is that they pave the way for more accidents. The police on the roadways are constantly stopping vehicles, pointing out a few faults, and taking bribes to allow the vehicle to continue. Some are known to the police and would offer a drink or lunch money before they are asked, thus the drivers are under the impression that they’ve formed a bond with the police, so they are free to use the roadways recklessly.
Finally Editor, a few days ago, I was amazed to observe several tinted vehicles parked around the environs of the Leonora Police Station. Because they have rules about parking around the station, I assumed that the GPF started another campaign against tinted vehicles. To my amazement, after 4 pm, police officers in uniform and civilian clothes entered those vehicles and drove away. I mentioned it and was informed that they are the owners. Now, the Commander of Region Three is stationed at the Leonora Police Station, and there’s nothing that could convince me that he doesn’t see this blatant lawlessness. Is it fair for private owners to follow orders to strip the tints from their vehicles from those who also have tints on their vehicles?
I would ask what their motives for becoming a police officer were, but there are officers in the GPF who were very slim when they joined, today I see many that would embarrass Santa Claus. Sadly, they are very young and it astonishes me to see young men accumulate such weight. Region Three has some and that tells me that life is sweet in the Guyana Police Force.
Sincerely,
Sahadeo Bates
