Latest update January 18th, 2025 6:34 AM
‘A’ Division boosts strength by 400 more ranks
From the look of things you might not believe that the police have doubled its strength in Georgetown and its environs.
A senior police official has confirmed that the Division is now manned by a little
Divisional Commander Clifton Hicken outlining plans for the policing of independence anniversary activities in the city.
more than 800 ranks.
This augurs well for the security of the capital city and surrounding areas for the fast approaching activities to celebrate Guyana’s 50th year of independence.
There were concerns expressed in certain quarters that recent criminal activities will loom like a large cloud over the Independence parades and related activities.
Chief among those expressing concerns was the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which had stated that the recent sensational crimes could deter visitors from coming to participate in the upcoming celebrations.
Their concerns were raised following the brazen attack on the Princess Hotel casino two weeks ago.
But the Guyana Police Force is assuring that with 60 new recruits recently graduated from the Felix Austin Police College, added to the 287 who graduated in February this year, the current crime situation is being aggressively tackled.
“All Divisional Commanders have been given additional manpower, but ‘A’ Division has been given the bulk,” a senior police official told this newspaper.
When asked why the disparity in the distribution of ranks, given that visitors for the independence celebrations will be located throughout the coastland and other areas, the official explained that 60% of the crimes are occurring in the Division.
“And besides, most of the independence activities will be held in ‘A’ Division,” the officer said.
The Guyana Police Force had stated that, in preparation for increased social activities during this period, it had planned a number of initiatives that include additional manpower deployment, particularly in tourist hotspots. All Annual Vacation Leave due to ranks will be suspended for the month.
“In addition, there will be increased patrols along the East Bank Demerara corridor and other major arteries; increased collaboration with the Force’s auxiliaries and other partners; increased vigilance at all the Ports of Entry; increased Immigration deployment at the Ports for the faster processing of passengers; escorts and close-protection will be provided for VIPs; efforts to maintain traffic enforcement to prevent congestion and deal with drunk driving and speeding; and Operation Dragnet activities that benefit from Joint Services collaboration will increase,” the police had said in a statement a week ago.
The police will be backed up by ranks from the Guyana Defence Force, who also form part of “Operation Dragnet,” which was implemented five months ago to provide security for several major events during the period up to May 31 and a little beyond.
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