Taxi fare decision delayed as police shooting and fake-gun law draw scrutiny

The Government has asked taxi operators to wait until June 1 for a Cabinet submission on a long-outstanding 16 per cent fare increase, after talks with transport representatives at the Transport Centre in Half-Way Tree. Transport Minister Daryl Vaz, Finance Minister Fayval Williams and Senator Aubyn Hill were among officials involved in the discussions.

Lorraine Finnegan, president of the All Voice Taxi Association, said there had been no organised national withdrawal of service, despite circulated claims naming him and another association leader. He said police contacted him after a video and voice note alleged a strike plan. Finnegan said operators were told the increase would go to Cabinet on June 1, when they should learn when in June it may take effect and whether it would be paid in one move or split into two tranches. He said the sector rejected any split.

In St. James, a police officer has been interdicted after the fatal shooting of 45-year-old Latoya Bulgin, also known as Buju, in Granville on Sunday, May 17. She was reportedly among residents protesting the earlier fatal shooting of 17-year-old Taja Edwards. INDECOM said three officers assigned to crowd-control duties were not issued or wearing body-worn cameras. The Granville Peace, Justice and Resource Development Foundation wants all officers involved removed from frontline duty while investigations proceed.

Opposition spokesman on national security Fitz Jackson said suspension alone was inadequate, arguing that officers in such cases should face stronger immediate action where evidence is clear. Attorney Isat Buchanan said he is representing Bulgin’s family.

Separately, debate continues over the Firearms Prohibition, Restriction and Regulation Act 2022 after Kingston music producer Euwayne Price, 47, was sentenced for eight imitation firearms found during a December 2023 joint police-military operation at Grant’s Pen Drive, Kingston 8. Price said they were music-video props. He was convicted on February 10 and later sentenced to 15 years for possession and life imprisonment for stockpiling, with parole eligibility after 10 years. Attorney Alexander Shaw said the law treats imitation and working firearms alike and leaves judges with too little discretion. National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang has signalled amendments this year.