Cops investigating six JUTC conductors
May 10, 2006
THE state-run Jamaica Urban Transit Company has called in the police to investigate at least six of its conductors suspected of defrauding the bus company of thousands of dollars.
A JUTC security liaison officer, who asked that his name not be used, alleged that the suspected conductors have been using the bus modules (machines used to issue bus tickets) while on unlawful settings, and keeping for themselves the money collected.
The modules, the officer said, were programmed by the company to function on very specific settings, but some bus conductors allegedly changed the settings of the modules temporarily, allowing them to collect fares and issue tickets, which are not recorded against the company settings.
Gwyneth Davidson, the JUTC's communications officer, was unable to say what was the extent of the losses, but said the company was taking steps to curb the problem.
The bus company has already taken legal action against two former conductors - Uriel McLean and Adrienne Darby - who were both found guilty of conspiracy to defraud and larceny as a servant when they appeared in the Half-Way-Tree Resident Magistrate's Court on April 20.
Darby was fined $20,000 and handed a nine-month suspended sentence, while McLean was fined $30,000 and also given a nine-month suspended sentence.
In the meantime, Davidson has urged JUTC customers to be alert, and to check their tickets every time they travel on the buses to ensure that they reflect the fares paid.
Author: Observer Reporter
Source: Jamaica Observer
