41,497 persons charged with traffic offences thus far for 2016

* Guyana Police Force clamping down on DUI, speeding and use of mobile devices while driving

The Guyana Police Force announced, yesterday, that there was an increase in road death by some 16 per cent, while serious crime has decreased by 17 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year.

According to statistics released by the Police, there has been a 16 per cent reduction in the reports of murder; nine per cent decrease in gun-related robberies as well as a 12 per cent decrease in armed robberies where other instruments were used.

In addition, a 22 per cent reduction in robberies with violence was recorded. The Police also revealed that there was a two per cent increase in robberies with aggravation; a 17 per cent decrease in rape; and a 21 per cent decrease in break and enter and larceny. Burglary was also on the decline by 15 per cent as well as larceny from the person by 35 per cent.

In the area of traffic management, the Police have recorded 72 road fatalities at the end of July 2016 when compared to 59 for the same period last year. While there was a reduction in serious accidents, there have been increases in minor and damage accidents.

The Guyana Police Force has charged 41,497 persons with traffic offences thus far for the year. This includes 15,427 for speeding and 1035 for driving under the influence of alcohol. Traffic enforcement is continuous countrywide, with special emphasis being placed on driving under the influence, speeding and the use of mobile devices while driving.

Attention is also being placed on pedestrian crossings at schools and elsewhere where there is a high percentage of foot traffic during peak hours. The Force was happy to announce that the traffic department has registered an influx of newly trained certifying officers, who will assist in reducing traffic offences on our streets and roadways.

Meanwhile, the Police Force continues to work hand in hand with various stakeholders in both the Public and Private Sectors in a collaborative effort to reduce crime countrywide and improve the safety of all Guyanese.

This is made possible by the gaining of momentum in increasing public trust which spins off into the gathering and sharing of intelligence that result in the solving and prevention of serious crimes and, in some instances, even the reopening of cold cases.