Overcharging, refusing passengers are offences – Police warn minibus operators

Traffic Education Officer attached to Traffic Headquarters, Inspector Richard Trotz, has reminded minibus operators that overcharging passengers and refusing to transport commuters are offences under the law, urging both operators and the public to ensure compliance with established transport regulations.
Speaking during a traffic education segment aired on a local media programme, Inspector Trotz said authorities have been receiving increasing reports from members of the public regarding fare-related complaints within the public transportation system.
“Minibus operators, owners, and drivers are reminded that they work in accordance with a road service licence that is issued by the Guyana Police Force and also a fare structure that should be displayed in their vehicles,” he said.
He stressed that overpricing remains a persistent issue and reiterated that fare information must be clearly visible to passengers.
“Overpricing is an issue. They are reminded that fare structures should be on display at all times. Persons should know the price that they will pay from one area to the next before they enter the vehicle,” Inspector Trotz stated.
The traffic education officer also urged commuters to take responsibility by reporting violations when they occur
“Members of the public who are commuters are reminded that once you are being overcharged by minibus drivers and operators, remember to report these issues at the nearest Police station,” he said.
Inspector Trotz further reminded operators that they are legally bound to transport passengers who request service, warning that refusal to do so constitutes an offence.
“Also, obligation to carry passengers. It is the duty of an operator of a minibus, being the driver, being the owner, and being the conductor, to transport a passenger from one point to the next. Refusing to carry a passenger is an offence. The offence is the obligation to carry the passenger,” he explained.
He closed by emphasising road safety and responsible driving.
“And remember, careful driving saves lives.”
Complaints about minibus overcharging in Guyana have been a persistent issue for many years, particularly along high-demand routes in Georgetown, East Bank Demerara, East Coast Demerara, and other coastal corridors.
The system is regulated under the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, which requires that approved fares be established and that operators adhere to the official fare structure set for designated routes. Operators are also required to display fares in vehicles so passengers are aware of costs before boarding.
Despite these regulations, enforcement agencies, particularly the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department, have repeatedly acknowledged that overcharging remains one of the most common public complaints.