Police say drivers need to be responsible for passengers
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - DRIVERS plying their trade on the streets in St. Kitts and Nevis are being reminded that they are responsible for commuters travelling on passenger buses they operate.
That reminder came from Traffic Officer Donaly Liburd-Chiverton, who was speaking on the ‘Ón the Road’ show today (Jan. 20) after a concern was raised about a passenger being physically assaulted on a bus.
A caller to the programme explained that a female had entered a bus plying a particular route and was seated alone at the back of the vehicle, while the driver was seated in front.
A male reportedly entered the omnibus and sat next to the female. However, during that time and to the female’s dismay, he allegedly placed his hand on one of her legs and began rubbing it.
According to the caller, the female raised the issue with the driver, who reportedly brushed aside the matter.
Liburd-Chiverton, while urging the caller to make contact with the law enforcement body, denounced that type of behaviour and pledged that the police would look into the matter since such conduct is not tolerated in any form.
“Busmen have certain responsibilities because they are the owners of the bus and are the bus drivers - and so you must take certain responsibilities. Now getting the information to us is something that we need. We cannot just sweep it under the rug,” the officer stressed.
Though this matter came to light, it is reported that similar issues often go unreported to the police force.
Meanwhile, Liburd-Chiverton used the platform to also respond to questions of how people use the roundabouts. She acknowledged that it is an issue that would continue to occur even as the police always to do their best to minimise that problem.
“We are still struggling with the roundabouts and the general public. We are always seeking the help of the general public since we cannot do it alone,” she added.
Against that backdrop, she pleaded with drivers to be mindful of others when they are using roundabouts.
Over the last several months, the police force came in for heavy criticism as drivers were reportedly breaking the laws when entering and leaving roundabouts.
“Once you are going straight, you stay left or in the outer lane. Once you are going right or around the roundabout, then you stay right or in the inner lane,” she advised.
