Minister Benn hands over helmets to Police Stations in Region 2 Under “Do the Right Thing” Campaign

– says it’s is not just about enforcement, it’s about protecting lives

While the Government continues to make strides in strengthening public safety and reducing crime, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn has expressed concern over the rising number of motorcycle-related deaths among young men, particularly due to the lack of helmet use.

In response, Minister Benn handed over a quantity of safety helmets to police stations during the commissioning of the new Charity Police Station and boat house over the weekend. The initiative forms part of the Ministry’s “Do the Right Thing” campaign, aimed at promoting safer road practices and reducing traffic-related fatalities.
“This is not just about enforcement it’s about protecting lives. Too many mothers are grieving. Too many homes are in mourning. And in most of these tragic cases, the simple act of wearing a helmet could have saved a life,” he said.

Minister Benn confirmed that the national crime rate has shown a significant decline, thanks to improved policing and investments in security infrastructure. However, he noted that this progress is being overshadowed by the alarming increase in fatal motorcycle accidents.
“We are seeing success in the reduction of crime, which is encouraging. But at the same time, we are losing too many young men on our roads, and in many cases, they are riding without helmets,” Minister Benn stated.
The Minister stressed that while law enforcement has been strengthened through new police stations, vehicles, boats and the deployment of body cameras, there must also be a focus on road safety and behavioural change.
He revealed that more than 30 young men have died in motorcycle crashes recently, with 23 of those not wearing helmets.

Minister Benn emphasised that wearing helmets is not optional and called on the police to strictly enforce the law. He even suggested that officers should impound motorcycles and require young riders to return with a parent and a helmet or give them a helmet before they are allowed back on the road.
Minister Benn called on both riders and families to take the issue seriously, urging communities to encourage young men to wear helmets and ride responsibly. He added that the Ministry is working closely with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and other stakeholders to step up road safety education and enforcement, particularly in high-risk areas.
As the Government continues to expand its efforts in modernising the security sector and reducing crime, Minister Benn stressed that public cooperation is critical in tackling the road safety crisis.