The Guyana Police Force on Monday reported that the year 2014 saw 147 murders being recorded in Guyana. That figure represents a 5% decrease in cases of murder when compared to the 2013 figure.
The number of robbery cases also appeared on the increase according to the report from the Police.
“At the end of December 2014, robbery under arms overall has increased by 5% in comparison to the same period in 2013. The statistics indicate an increase of 11% in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms; and a 6% decrease in armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators”, the statement said.
The Police Force also reported a 30% increase in road fatalities. 146 Guyanese lost their lives in traffic accidents during 2014 in 135 road accidents.
The report found that “pedestrians have been the main road users affected with 60 such persons having lost their lives at the end of December 2014. In addition 26 motor cyclists, 20 pedal cyclists, 16 drivers, 23 persons travelling in motor vehicles and 1 person being towed on a bicycle also lost their lives.”
It also noted that speeding continues to be a major contributing factor to fatal accidents and was the cause of 87 of the 135 fatal accidents recorded at the end of December 2014.
Three persons have already lost their lives due to road accidents for the year so far.
The Guyana Police Force intends to step up its traffic campaign during the new year. According to the Police, the Traffic Department will be intensifying its enforcement activities with special focus on speeding and driving under the influence, in addition to other offences such as using motor cycles without safety helmets and using cellphones while driving.
“A number of initiatives that were adopted in 2014 will continue this year, inclusive of the ‘Name and Shame’ campaign in relation to persons driving under the influence of alcohol and the use of the tow truck in situations where motor vehicles are parked in contravention of the laws, as the Force strives to ensure road safety”, the report added.
The report did not say what efforts are being employed by the police to tackle the problems of murder and robberies. Just recently the Home Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee expressed concern about the high number of murders taking place in the country and the increase in cases of robbery under arms.
Filed: 12th January, 2014
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