Police Constable selling driver’s license illegally caught in sting operation

Police Constable Yohance Bourne was arrested on Thursday after he was caught selling a driver’s license illegally during a joint operation undertaken by ranks of the Guyana Police Force.

The operation was conducted between 16:45 hrs and 17:00 hrs in the vicinity of Norton and Dubran Streets, Georgetown, by ranks from the Special Branch Headquarters and the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR).

The News Room understands that the Police Force received information that Constable Bourne was allegedly involved in illegal activities related to the sale of driver’s licences.

Following intelligence received, an operation was set up during which Constable Bourne allegedly demanded the sum of $100,000 to facilitate the transaction of getting a license for someone without them doing any exam or practical driving test. He further indicated willingness to accept $55,000 upfront, along with two passport-sized photographs, a copy of a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) certificate, and a national identification card.

As part of the operation, serial numbers from the cash were recorded.

On Thursday afternoon, the operation unfolded. Constable Bourne met with the person he planned to sell the driver’s license to and collected the provided documents and marked cash. A surveillance team, led by an Assistant Superintendent (ASP), was close by.

Immediately following the transaction, the ASP approached and identified himself and other ranks to Constable Bourne, and informed him of the ongoing exercise. A search was then conducted. The marked cash and documents were found in Bourne’s possession. A comparison of the serial numbers confirmed a match with the previously recorded notes.

Constable Bourne was subsequently arrested on suspicion of demanding money with menace and engaging in corrupt transactions. He was then escorted to OPR Headquarters for further investigation. His cellphone, documents, and the marked cash were lodged at East La Penitence Police Station.

Further investigations are ongoing.