– speeding, tinted vehicles dominate

THE Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department has reported a total of 3,450 traffic offences recorded over a two-week period in July, highlighting persistent challenges in enforcing road safety across the country.
According to the latest figures, between July 13 and July 19, officers recorded 773 specific traffic breaches out of a total of 1,899 cases made for that week alone. The following week, from July 20 to July 26, another 651 specific breaches were recorded out of 1,551 total cases.
Speeding remains the most prevalent offence on Guyana’s roads. For the first week under review, 187 drivers were charged for exceeding speed limits, and that figure rose to 200 the following week, showing a worrying upward trend despite ongoing safety campaigns.
Tinted vehicles also continue to pose a significant challenge for traffic ranks, with 193 cases in the first week and 109 in the second. Improper tints have long been associated with both security risks and difficulties for law enforcement officers during routine stops.
Other common offences recorded during the two-week period include failure to wear seatbelts (85 and 82 cases), failure to wear safety helmets (90 and 104 cases), and driving under the influence of alcohol (38 and 22 cases). Additionally, there were dozens of cases involving vehicles with defective lighting or faulty packing, and breaches of the conditions of prescribed fitness certificates.
In a bid to tackle these worrying trends, the Traffic Department has been ramping up public education efforts. Over the first week alone, officers conducted lectures for drivers, motorcyclists, and other road users at key locations, including the Mahdia Car Park in Region 8, East La Penitence Police Station in Georgetown, the East Coast Public Road near MovieTowne, Croal Street at the Route 40 and 48 minibus parks, the Madewini Public Road at Timehri, and the Port Kaituma Waterfront in Region 1.
To further amplify their message, the Department hosted a dedicated road safety segment on NCN Radio’s 102.5 FM, encouraging listeners to comply with traffic laws and adopt safer driving habits.
Despite these efforts, the steady flow of offenders underscores the deep-rooted culture of traffic violations in Guyana. Senior traffic officers continue to urge motorists to heed the rules of the road, warning that intensified enforcement operations, including more random breathalyzer tests and stop-and-search exercises, will continue throughout the year.
With fatalities and serious accidents often linked to reckless driving, speeding, and drunk driving, the Police Force has reiterated its commitment to saving lives through stricter law enforcement and community education.
Members of the public are encouraged to play their part by reporting reckless drivers, insisting on safer practices when using public transport, and setting a positive example for younger drivers.