Latest update November 21st, 2024 1:00 AM
Berbice Commander defies Greene gag order
-describes it as disrespectful
Commander of Police B Division Assistant Commissioner Steven Merai says that the gag order placed on the Commanders and Heads of Division of The Guyana Police Force was an irresponsible move and a total disrespect to the respective Commanders by Commissioner of Police Henry Greene.
Merai, who is set to leave the force shortly, made the statement when he met with the press in Berbice. He was responding to questions about the gag order imposed a few months ago on members of the Guyana Police Force by embattled Commissioner of Police Henry Greene.
Steve Merai
Greene had reversed an earlier decision by his predecessor, allowing the most senior officers to speak to the media.
He had said that the decision was in the interest of synchronizing what information goes out to the public.
The outspoken Commander Merai said that he was trained in Jamaica and even the Constable there can speak to the media, as long as what they say is responsible.
He said that the gag order was a “Greene thing” and Green is not the head of the Force at the moment, so he thinks that he could speak to the media.
When asked if the gag has been lifted, Merai stated that he is now dealing with Mr Leroy Brummel who is now the Acting Commissioner “and Mr. Brummel has not put out a gag order”. He said that Commanders are responsible people and they should be given some latitude.
He made it clear that he supports and recognises Brummel as Commissioner Acting. He thinks Brummel is qualified and fit to do a good job.
He said that if persons do not speak to the media, then the media will be forced to speculate, and that could be an undesirable situation.
Referring to recent allegations made against the commissioner which has forced him to proceed on leave, Merai said that Greene should remove himself fully to allow for an impartial investigation.
He said that the head of the Criminal Investigations Department, Assistant Commissioner Seelall Persaud should get on with the investigation and should stop making excuses.
“He is the head of the CID and should feel comfortable to do his job. You cannot be waiting on any further directive. It might be difficult to investigate your boss, but you have a job to do and should do it to the best of your ability,” Merai stated.
Merai said that the crime Chief should start the investigation and if outside help comes incorporate and update them.
Merai in a hard-hitting statement said that from what he is hearing, a number of other females, both police and civilians want to come forward with more startling stories, but they are afraid and will only come forward if they received certain guarantees.
These he said includes a full civilian involvement in the investigations, such as a commission of inquiry.
With regards to the two conflicting memoranda received by commanders regarding the commissioner proceeding on leave, Merai stated that he will be and is reporting to Assistant Commissioner Brummel.
“I can’t report to a commissioner who is at home, nor can I report to a commissioner who is under investigation.”
He dared Green to respond to him, because he has more than a thousand pieces ready to unleash.
When asked why speaking out only now. He said that he feels comfortable to speak out now seeing that Greene is not the Commissioner. He said it is not always easy to speak out against your boss.
Friday: Steve merai
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