Twenty-seven-year-old Clinton Singh of Itaballi Landing, Mazaruni River, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence (DUI).
Singh appeared before Magistrate Tariq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrates Court on Wednesday and pleaded guilty to the charge. As such, he was fined $200,000.
The arrest occurred as part of ongoing efforts by the police in Regional Division #7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) to curb reckless driving and ensure public safety. Authorities continue to remind the public of the dangers of driving under the influence and encourage responsible behaviour on the roadways.
The penalties for DUI have been significantly increased in Guyana as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to curb road fatalities. First-time offenders now face a $200,000 fine, up from the previous $60,000, while second-time offenders will be fined $300,000. Additionally, those convicted of DUI will face a mandatory 12-month suspension of their driver’s license.
The tougher penalties come alongside amendments to the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing (Amendment) Act 2022, which also holds bar owners accountable. Under the new subsection, bar owners are prohibited from permitting drunkenness on their premises, as well as from selling, giving, or bartering intoxicating liquor to intoxicated individuals. Fines for breaches of these obligations have been increased to ensure compliance.
In conjunction with these legal changes, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has launched a series of nationwide campaigns to promote road safety. Drivers are being educated under the theme “Arrive Alive, Stop Speeding, Don’t Drink & Drive,” focusing on the dangers of speeding and drunk driving. They are also reminded to obey traffic lights and officials, adhere to speed limits, maintain their vehicles, and avoid using handheld devices while driving.
Police statistics reveal that DUI and speeding remain the leading causes of road accidents in Guyana. As such, police urge motorists to ensure that their driver’s licenses and vehicle documents are up to date and to adopt safer driving habits to prevent further tragedies on the nation’s roads.
