Road accidents decline by 24 per cent in 2026
-as police strengthen enforcement measures
Road accidents have decreased by 24 per cent in 2026 compared to the corresponding period in 2025.
This reflects the impact of strengthened enforcement measures and technological interventions by the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday, Commissioner of Police Dr Clifton Hicken said that while the reduction is encouraging, road safety remains a national priority.
Despite the decline, Dr Hicken noted that road safety remains a major concern, pointing out that Guyana recorded 124 fatal accidents in 2025, resulting in 137 deaths.
“While we are encouraged by the reduction in accidents, we are not satisfied. Our goal is to save lives, and every road user has a responsibility to obey the traffic laws and exercise greater caution,” the police commissioner stated.
The Guyana Police Force has operationalised 21 speed cameras in Regions Three and Four, with plans to expand the system to other parts of the country.
In 2026 alone, 27,337 electronic tickets were issued, resulting in the suspension of 22 driver’s licences.
The force has also intensified road safety awareness campaigns targeting schoolchildren, bus operators, commercial drivers and patrons of entertainment establishments. Traffic ranks continue to be deployed at accident-prone locations to conduct speed enforcement exercises, drunk-driving operations and high-visibility patrols.
Dr Hicken said the force will continue to utilise technology and intelligence-led policing to improve compliance and reduce fatalities on the nation’s roadways.
“Technology is transforming the way we police our roads. Through enhanced monitoring, strategic enforcement and public education, we are building a safer environment for all road users,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Operations Pillar of the Guyana Police Force Strategic Plan 2027–2031 will introduce a comprehensive traffic management framework to address emerging road safety challenges.
Among the priority areas are the regulation of e-bikes, stricter enforcement against dangerous driving practices and measures to reduce accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles.
Plans are also underway to introduce speed governors to limit trucks and other heavy vehicles to a maximum speed of 80 kilometres per hour.
The commissioner further highlighted the force’s digital transformation agenda, which is to improve access to public services.
Future initiatives include the introduction of an electronic Police Clearance System, a “Track My Case” management platform and a digital Firearm Licensing and Application System, all designed to enhance efficiency, transparency and service delivery.
