• careless driving persists as 3,389 traffic violations recorded last week

THE Guyana Police Force Traffic Department has reported a total of 3,389 traffic violations recorded across the country for the period March 29 to April 4, 2026, with speeding, helmet use, and seatbelt offences among the most prevalent.

According to the department’s weekly report, speeding accounted for the highest number of cases, with 1,139 drivers charged, followed by 149 instances of motorists leaving vehicles in dangerous positions and 105 cases of failure to wear safety helmets. Authorities also recorded 98 seatbelt offences and 57 cases of pillion riders without helmets.

Other violations included 66 unlighted motor vehicles (front), 55 unlighted vehicles (rear), 41 breaches of prescribed fitness conditions, 38 cases of faulty packing, and 34 breaches of traffic light signals. Additionally, 26 drivers were charged for driving under the influence, while 22 unlicensed drivers were detected.

The report comes as enforcement of the new tinted vehicle regulations, which took effect on April 1 under Regulation No. 1 of 2026, remains under close scrutiny. Only 23 cases related to tinted vehicles were recorded between April 1 and April 4, a figure the department says reflects its current focus on public education and compliance rather than aggressive enforcement.

Police noted that speeding and the failure to use basic safety measures such as seatbelts and helmets continue to pose serious concerns, describing the trend as worrying despite ongoing enforcement efforts.

Meanwhile, the department acknowledged receiving complaints regarding the conduct of some traffic ranks at locations including Den Amstel, Cove and John, and along sections of the highway patrol network. Issues raised ranged from alleged selective enforcement to the use of plainclothes ranks without proper tint meters. The police said immediate steps were taken to address these concerns and improve service delivery.

Authorities emphasised that the tinted vehicle regulations require full compliance and objective enforcement, while also stressing the importance of maintaining public trust through professionalism.

In addition to enforcement, the Traffic Department conducted a series of road safety lectures and community outreach activities during the reporting period. These engagements targeted drivers, bar patrons, and community members at multiple locations nationwide, including areas in Georgetown, the Essequibo Coast, Linden Highway, and several communities in the North West District.

The Guyana Police Force is continuing its public awareness campaign under the message “Careful Driving Saves Lives,” urging motorists to adhere to traffic laws and adopt safer driving practices as enforcement efforts intensify.