President Irfaan Ali has directed the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to swiftly implement measures addressing a range of traffic concerns, including speeding trucks, reckless driving, and the unauthorized use of lights on private vehicles.
During a meeting at State House yesterday with senior GPF officials, including Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken and Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh, President Ali stressed the urgency of improving safety for all road users. The conversation was prompted by a recent uptick in traffic accidents, particularly related to speeding and driving under the influence.
President Ali emphasized the necessity for the GPF to leverage existing camera technology on new highways to prosecute traffic offenders effectively. He specifically cited the law’s provisions allowing for the suspension of licenses for certain infractions and urged immediate and consistent enforcement.
“The Commissioner of Police must ensure that the Traffic Chief and his team fully implement the laws regulating the proper use of our roadways,” he said. “Indiscipline, especially among truck drivers, cannot continue.”
The President appealed to all drivers, particularly those operating trucks and public transport, to adhere strictly to traffic regulations to help prevent fatalities. He also highlighted the role of bar owners in ensuring their patrons do not drive under the influence.
Further, President Ali announced that the GPF will publicize the names of drivers exceeding speed limits thrice, alongside potential license suspensions for repeat offenders. The use of traffic cameras installed on highways has already resulted in the issuance of 893 tickets for violations.
Additionally, President Ali called attention to the misuse of emergency lights and sirens on private vehicles, urging owners to remove such devices immediately. He tasked the Attorney General with amending laws to impose penalties on drivers who unlawfully employ these features and announced a crackdown on retailers supplying illegal lights and sirens.
“These issues are of great importance to me, my government, and the citizens of our nation,” he remarked. “It is imperative that we collectively address the chaos on our roadways”, he said.
To further aid enforcement efforts, President Ali has requested the procurement of body cameras for traffic officers to ensure accountability and transparency during their operations.
The meeting also included Anil Nandlall SC, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, reinforcing the government’s commitment to road safety and law enforcement in Guyana.
There was an outcry earlier this week after the collision of two trucks resulted in the death of electrical contractor Colin Smartt.
