THE latest enforcement drive by the Guyana Police Force against the unauthorised use of sirens in private vehicles has resulted in further equipment being seized and lodged as evidence, as the Traffic Department moves to take suspected offenders before the courts.
Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh, disclosed the latest developments during a recent update on traffic enforcement, saying officers continue to pursue motorists suspected of illegally installing or using emergency warning equipment.
In one of the cases, a driver of a Toyota Land Cruiser allegedly failed to stop when directed by police and did not comply with instructions given by ranks in uniform. Police also alleged that the manner in which the vehicle was being driven posed a danger to other road users.
The vehicle was subsequently intercepted, allowing a full examination to be conducted in the presence of the driver by a licensing and certifying officer.
Although the driver reportedly insisted that the vehicle was not fitted with a siren, the examination allegedly uncovered a fully installed and functioning siren system.
The equipment was identified and demonstrated in the driver’s presence, including its operation, and was subsequently seized for production as evidence in court. The driver is also expected to face charges arising from the incident.
The latest case forms part of a wider enforcement effort targeting the unauthorised installation and use of sirens and emergency warning equipment on private vehicles.
Singh previously disclosed that police had seized four pieces of siren equipment valued at more than $2 million during a seven-day period. The equipment was recovered from vehicles associated with a contractor, a private security company, a Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit staff member and another individual.
The Traffic Chief said the seized equipment was being lodged for production in court as investigations progressed.
Police have also been using surveillance cameras, reports from members of the public and information from the motor vehicle registration database to identify vehicles suspected of carrying unauthorised emergency equipment. Reports submitted through the Road Watch application are also assisting investigators.
The enforcement is grounded in provisions governing the use of sirens, gongs and similar warning devices. The Guyana Chronicle previously reported that the regulations restrict such equipment to authorised emergency vehicles, with police, fire service vehicles and ambulances among the categories permitted to use them.
The latest siren seizures underscore the Traffic Department’s position that private motorists cannot assume emergency privileges through the installation of sirens or warning lights and that suspected breaches will be investigated and, where supported by evidence, taken before the courts.
