Nearly six motorists are being charged every day for tint violations, with 751 persons charged since enforcement of Guyana’s new tint regulations began on April 1.
Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh told Ignite News the figures point to continued non-compliance, despite repeated efforts by police to educate motorists and give them opportunities to correct violations.
Of those charged, Singh said about 75 per cent were cited for tint applied to the front glass of their vehicles.
“We continue to test to enable them to benefit but we can’t at this stage in time, still be testing, the only test is to charge you. You are still given a fair opportunity, where we detect it and, guess what, it’s not overwhelming or overbearing. We are not frustrated, we know what to do and how to do it,” he said.
Singh stressed that the regulations apply to everyone, regardless of their position or affiliation, including government officials, major businesses and members of the Joint Services.
He said police will continue to take action whenever violations are detected.
The Traffic Chief added: “As we detect it, we deal with it. So with that being said, Joint Services members are put on notice again. The same goes for you, your badge of rank means nothing where it comes to the compliance of the laws of this country. If you are not compliant you can make your calls, we will also remain professional.”
The Traffic Chief also rejected any suggestion that motorists are being targeted unfairly, stressing that enforcement is not based on prejudice or bias.
He advised anyone who believes they have been unfairly treated to file a report with the Office of Professional Responsibility or the Commissioner of Police’s Office.
“Don’t come with frivolous things. Unsubstantiated reports allow for that policeman or woman to take certain legal actions against you, so be very careful when you are coming to make your spurious allegations. Don’t be guilty of, or contributing to, such illegalities or unlawful practice and then want to play the victim and cry wolf,” he stressed.
Singh reminded motorists that the new regulations do permit tinted windows within specified limits, but warned that the allowance should not be abused.
