Police Spearheading Crackdown on Motorcyclists and Traffic Offenders
Gary McKenzie, the Head of the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, has raised grave concerns about the increasing prevalence of robberies and contract-style murders carried out by motorcyclists. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has announced an intensified crackdown on motorcyclists as a key component of the Police High Command’s anti-crime strategy.
McKenzie emphasized that the police possess intelligence confirming the involvement of pillion riders on motorcycles in firearm conflicts with law enforcement officers. He issued a stern warning that motorcyclists carrying pillion riders will face heightened scrutiny.
“We will rigorously target motorcycles. It is imperative for individuals to understand that driving a motorcycle and transporting a pillion rider require a valid driver’s license. Consequently, we will take decisive action. Any motorcycle carrying two persons will be subject to thorough checks, searches, and where deemed necessary, arrest, prosecution, and confiscation,” McKenzie revealed.
According to ACP McKenzie, last year’s crackdown resulted in the seizure of thousands of motorcycles.
“It is crucial to note that in 2023, we confiscated over 2000 motorcycles, which is approximately 900 more than in 2022. However, we acknowledge the need for further action. Therefore, we vow to ensure the responsible use of motorcycles on our roads and to deter criminal activities involving motorcycles.”
Furthermore, McKenzie disclosed that over 100 motorcyclists lost their lives in road accidents last year.
Meanwhile, ACP McKenzie announced the upcoming launch of a search by the traffic department for motorists who have evaded payment of their traffic fines. He cautioned that motorists with outstanding fines risk arrest.
“We are aware that some individuals have neglected to pay their traffic fines and failed to appear in court. We are particularly concerned about individuals who repeatedly violate traffic regulations and continue to drive on our roads. This is an intolerable situation,” he asserted.
McKenzie also reported that the police had executed 258 traffic warrants over the past two weeks. Specifically, 116 warrants were executed for public passenger vehicle drivers and 27 for other motorists in the previous seven days.
Auto Mechanic Charged with Fraudulent Activity in Kingston.
A 31-year-old auto mechanic has been charged with conspiracy to defraud and attempt to obtain money by false pretense in connection to an incident on Third Street, Kingston, on Wednesday, January 10.
According to detectives from the Kingston Western Police Division, the accused, known as Giovani Francis, allegedly contacted an individual by phone, falsely claiming to be a government minister. During the conversation, Francis purportedly offered to acquire two Toyota Prado motor vehicles at a reduced rate from an upcoming auction.
Furthermore, it is reported that Francis instructed the individual to pay customs and storage fees totaling $2.5 million. Fortunately, the intended victim grew suspicious and chose to contact the actual government minister, whom Francis was impersonating. Upon learning of the situation, the minister confirmed the fraudulent nature of the activity and advised the individual to involve the police.
Francis was subsequently apprehended during an operation and, following a question-and-answer session in the presence of his legal counsel was formally charged. His court date is pending finalization.