No more hidden tactics – Traffic Chief on traffic enforcement

In a bold move towards transparency, Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh has spoken out against the controversial practice of Police officers concealing themselves while monitoring traffic.

This announcement comes after numerous complaints from drivers who alleged that traffic officers were hiding behind trees and other objects, armed with speed guns, to catch unsuspecting motorists off guard.
Senior Superintendent Singh firmly stated that traffic enforcement should not be shrouded in secrecy, and Police officers should be visible to the public at all times.
He emphasised that officers should be in plain sight, ensuring that their presence serves as a deterrent to traffic violations.
“We have tried our level best to ensure that all our ranks understand the need that what they are doing is not a secret, what they are doing is not meant to be prejudiced towards the public. They must be very open in spaces that are appropriate, and where they are in full view of those who are also within the range of the radar they are in possession of,” he said.
Several drivers had expressed frustration and dissatisfaction with the perceived underhanded methods, calling for greater transparency and fairness in law enforcement.
Further, Singh’s stance aligns with the recent directive from Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, who stated that no officer should resort to hiding while conducting traffic enforcement duties.
The Commissioner emphasised the importance of upholding the law with integrity and respect for the public. He noted that any officer found contravening these guidelines will face appropriate disciplinary actions, Singh said.
“If we are to be made aware of directly where it is occurring, the necessary action will be taken promptly to ensure that a realignment of the rank’s behaviour, and or compliance for future such exercises. We wouldn’t just be speaking to the rank, but there will be something in writing for if there is a reoccurrence, serious actions will be taken,” the Traffic Chief said.
It is anticipated that these measures will contribute to a safer road environment, where motorists can abide by traffic regulations without fear of unfair or unexpected penalties.
Over the past few months, the Guyana Police Force has been ramping up its traffic enforcement exercises due to an increase in traffic violations. Even though drivers have been complaining about law enforcement officers’ tactics, there has been an increase in speeding cases.
A recent operation resulted in 22 drivers being apprehended for speeding violations. During the operation, law enforcement officers monitored the flow of traffic, identifying and stopping vehicles that exceeded the speed limits. As such, drivers were caught violating the speed limit.
In the first half of 2023, over 2000 persons were charged with ticketing offences.
Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken has noted that despite harsher penalties being imposed on defaulters, violation of traffic laws remains high. According to him, factors contributing to the alarming statistics include speeding, driving under the influence, poor driver behaviour, distracted driving, and inadequate infrastructure. (G9)