Police take road safety, driver services to South Rupununi communities

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Department in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) has expanded its community engagement efforts through road safety sensitisation activities and the delivery of driver services to residents in the South Rupununi. On Saturday, August 1, 2026, ranks attached to the Lethem Police Station Traffic Department conducted a community outreach in Rupunau Village, where a Learner Driver’s Theoretical Examination was administered to new applicants and candidates who had been rescheduled after being unable to travel to Lethem. The initiative allowed residents to access the examination within their community, reducing the need for travel to the regional centre.

Toshao Michael Wilson expressed appreciation to the Police Force for bringing the service directly to Rupunau, noting that the initiative benefited residents. He also thanked the ranks for their commitment and said the community looks forward to similar outreach activities in the future. Meanwhile, on Friday, the Lethem Police Station Traffic Department, led by Sergeant Bourne and supported by Lance Corporal Isaacs, conducted a road safety sensitisation exercise for motorists in Lethem Township. During the exercise, drivers were reminded of the importance of observing traffic regulations, including the requirement not to stop within 30 feet of any corner. Motorists were also encouraged to obey road signs and signals, keep to the correct side of the roadway, use designated parking areas, and practise patience and courtesy while sharing the road. The ranks urged road users to remain alert and responsible, highlighting the role of safe driving practices in reducing road traffic collisions. Also on July 31, ranks from the Annai Police Station participated in a Community Outreach and General Public Meeting hosted by the Annai Central Village Council at the Annai Village Benab in the North Rupununi. The meeting brought together representatives from the GPF, Health, Education, Agriculture and other Government agencies to engage residents and address community concerns.

During the Police presentation, Inspector T. Rodrigues, Officer-in-Charge of Sub-Division two, Police Regional Division Nine, provided information on domestic violence, the difference between discipline and child abuse, underage driving, traffic offences and penalties, driver’s licence requirements, and the prohibition of alcohol sales to minors. Residents were encouraged to support the Police Force’s community outreach programmes and school lectures aimed at promoting crime prevention, road safety, responsible citizenship and stronger relationships between the Police and communities.