Police have suspended a van driver’s licence and charged him and his conductor over an incident in which a student fell from a moving minivan near St. Joseph’s Convent in Kingstown.
“The incident, which has raised significant public concern, reportedly occurred on Sept. 12, 2024, as the door of the vehicle remained open while in motion,” police said.
The incident was captured on video and circulated via social media.
Police said they have charged the driver of the van, Jerden Jacobs, of Green Hill, with driving without a licensed conductor on board; driving in a manner dangerous to the public; permitting a conductor to ride elsewhere other than inside the vehicle; and,
playing a musical instrument in a public place without written permission.
Meanwhile, Joelando Browne, of Green Hill, who was the conductor of the vehicle, was charged with acting as a conductor without the proper permit; and, riding the vehicle in an unsafe manner, outside of the designated area.
Police said that after the charges were laid, acting Commissioner of Police Enville Williams, the licensing authority in St. Vincent and the Grenadines exercised this power and suspended Jacobs’ driver’s license with immediate effect.
“The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force is fully committed to ensuring that our roads remain safe for all users,” the police statement said.
“Incidents of reckless or negligent behaviour will not be tolerated. This incident serves as a stern reminder of the dangers posed by non-compliance with road safety regulations, especially where the safety of children and passengers is concerned.”
Police said they would like to assure the public that the police force will continue to take “decisive and uncompromising action against anyone who flagrantly disregards the laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“The safety of our citizens is paramount, and we are resolute in enforcing the law to its fullest extent,” the statement said.
“The RSVGPF encourages all road users to strictly comply with the traffic laws to prevent incidents of this nature and ensure the safety and well-being of all members of the public.
“We also urge the public to report any traffic violations or suspicious activity they may observe. By working together, we can promote a safer and more orderly nation.”
People wishing to make such reports can call the police emergency at 999/911 or telephone (784) 457-1211 or (784) 492-3479.
We just used to substandard rubbish. Suppose the student died or suffered more injury? Everybody would sit around for a few days, talk about it then move on to the next. Minivan drivers need a stricter code to drive a passenger vehicle. Every other day they kill or injure somebody.
It should be of Grace concern to the General Population of St.Vincent and the Grenadines the Recklessness and Total disregard dor passengers and other road users safety that stiffer penalties be imposed upon the Mini Bus drivers in the country. Its occuring ever too often. The ignorance neesds to stop immediately.
Many of the vans are rammed pack with students, some even sitting in each other laps, and performing disgraceful activities in these positions. Many of the vans are fitted with large and multiple speakers that blast away vulgar and sexualised songs while transporting our nations young and innocent ones. The traffic department needs to operate more efficiently outside of Kingstown and Arnos Vale. There are laws concerning sexual abuse of minors and noise act, even driving recklessly on the roads. You would believe these moving discos are on a race track on mornings and afternoons. Who is looking out for our children?