Drivers Be Responsible

#TurksandCaicos, April 4, 2024 – Drivers, leaving your engines idling is not a convenience issue; it’s an offence under the Road Traffic Ordinance.

Superintendent (Divisions and Community Policing) Dwight Gardiner made the statement by calling on drivers to be more responsible for their actions following a spate of vehicle thefts.

Superintendent Gardiner said, “On Monday (April 01st), around 5:58 p.m., the Police Control Room received a report of a stolen vehicle along Millennium Highway. The vehicle owner told officers he parked his car with the engine idling at a restaurant and walked away to chat with someone. A few minutes later, the vehicle was gone. Currently, the RTCIPF are investigating reports of similar circumstances where vehicle owners left their engines idling and went to the supermarket or other establishments. In certain instances, owners have left the keys in the ignition and gone about their business.

“I am urging drivers to take responsibility for their actions. It’s not just about obeying the law; it’s about protecting one’s property and the community’s safety. Leaving a motor vehicle unattended with the engine running is an offence. Simple measures like turning off engines when parked can significantly deter would-be thieves. Additionally, I urge people to avoid leaving valuables in their vehicles. This precaution can prevent theft. It’s important to remain vigilant and secure items whenever leaving your vehicle unattended”.

The RTCIPF asks the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, and anonymously give any information on illegal activity.