Latest update April 3rd, 2026 12:35 AM
Police ‘shake down’ must stop
Jul 01, 2008 Letters
DEAR EDITOR,
The recent incident involving Magistrate Gilhuys has opened up a lot of questions, especially with regards to the crime fighting approach by the Police.
First of all, I would like to state clearly that the magistrate’s approach may not have been the correct one, but given the circumstances in which we live in Guyana, the magistrate does have a case.
I recall being in a similar situation with the Police, and I believe that several ranks use their uniform to ‘shake down’ persons who, for many reasons, do not want their nocturnal activities exposed.
I had parked my vehicle on Middle Street, near the Promenade Gardens, and was engaged with a female friend.
Of course, the area is poorly lit, and a passing Police patrol happened to stop behind my parked vehicle.
There was no flashing light and no markings on the vehicle that would have indicated that the occupants were policemen.
I became afraid, and if I had a gun I, too, may have been tempted to shoot.
It happened again on at least two other occasions, and in one instance the Police demanded a ‘raise’ from me, threatening to take me to the station since, as they put it, I was acting in a suspicious manner.
Of course, being a married man, I did not want my business exposed, and I complied.
Maybe many others have faced similar situations and are afraid to come forward.
I think that a better approach by our policemen could help save their lives.
Remember cricketer Shivnarine Chanderpaul?
Name and Address Withheld
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