Police threaten to prosecute unruly taxi drivers amid protest

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) headed by Major General Antony Anderson has threatened to prosecute motorists who break the law while protesting against aspects of the amended Road Traffic Bill.

“The protestors are being warned to desist from blocking roadways, and threatening and intimidating other road users. It is the intention of the police to fully enforce the law. Consequently, anyone who commits an offence will be prosecuted,” the JCF declared in a statement this evening, November 21.

It further said: “While the constitution makes provisions for peaceful demonstration, persons are reminded that such actions must be carried out in a responsible way and must not infringe on the rights of other members of the public; neither should it be in contravention of the law.”

The JCF said it has taken note of the protest actions in “several parishes over the past three days”, adding that it observed protestors using their vehicles to block roadways and prevent other road users from going about their lawful business.

“In other instances, operators are preventing commuters from accessing other modes of transportation. There have been reports of threats of violence to other operators who do not wish to protest,” added the JCF.

The amended Road Traffic Bill, which proposes harsher penalties and fines for breaches, has been passed in the House of Representatives and will next be deliberated in the Senate.

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