THE Guyana Police Association (GPA), which represents non-gazetted ranks has said, considering the loss of life and limb, untold human misery and incalculable social and material loss caused by traffic accidents, it would be unconscionable if it does not pronounce on the recent spate, especially with the advent of National Road Safety Month.
In a statement, the GPA posited that the Police Traffic Department, with the support of stakeholders, has dispensed dispassionate professionalism in the execution of its duties and mandate as law enforcement officers.
It added that its members stand postured to alleviate the mindless and ruthless culture of lawlessness in the use of the roadways, employed by some persons, which has permeated the moral and ethical values and norms of society.
The GPA said it recognises that the maximum use of scientific equipment, such as radars and breathalysers, would, significantly, reduce, to the benefit of everyone, the lawless behaviour of errant drivers.
The Association said it is of the firm belief that, apart from rationalisations in manpower and equipment within the Traffic Department, the greatest asset in ensuring that the traffic situation improves is through the engagement of the citizenry.
“More than any other factor, it is highly dependent on each person’s cooperation and civic duty, in recognition of his/her responsibility, in relation to the safe use of our roadways,” the statement said.
It continued to urge its members to act in accordance with their oath of office and the clearly defined guidelines and principles set out in the Force Standing Orders.
Furthermore, the Association called on its membership and other stakeholders to emulate the bravery of the Police ranks and members of the communities in ‘E & F’ Division, who showed remarkable commitment in the fight against crime and support for the Police, through the recent apprehension of criminal elements, at risk to their lives.
The Association said, similarly, it feels that the fight against crime must continue to be enhanced with the assistance of scientific methodology and professionalism in the execution of their duties by members of the Force, with the support of the Community Policing Groups and the public.
“These would certainly result in greater detection and prevention of crime in our society,” the statement noted.
The Association also offered its condolences to the families who have lost loved ones due to traffic accidents and called on all stakeholders and members of the public, in general, to support the GPF in carrying out its mandate, with respect to the fight against crime and maintaining road safety.