V-PAC is urgently calling for sweeping reforms within the Guyana Police Force (GPF) following a surge of complaints regarding misconduct, brutality, and impunity. The recent viral video depicting an officer being “disciplined” has intensified scrutiny on a longstanding issue that the government has attempted to downplay.
The statistics speak for themselves. In 2023, a staggering 194 complaints were filed against police officers, averaging one complaint every other day. By April 2024, an additional 127 complaints had already been logged, highlighting a troubling trend in public trust and accountability.
Adding to the concern, four fatal police shootings in 2023 were referred to the Police Complaints Authority (PCA), yet each case was returned to the police for internal investigation. Critics argue this creates a significant conflict of interest, likening it to “the fox guarding the henhouse.” Despite the PCA Act mandating independent oversight, the system often circumvents the law when politically expedient.
Compounding these issues is a disconcerting statistic: 95% of police officers reportedly lack a full understanding of their own powers and the rights of citizens. This lack of training raises alarm bells, particularly in light of numerous incidents where vulnerable communities, especially Black youths, have faced violence and intimidation.
V-PAC asserts that this is not simply an issue of “bad apples.” Rather, it is indicative of a deeply rooted system influenced by political control. The current administration appears to benefit from a weaponized police force, prioritizing power over accountability.
Questions linger: Why has Parliament not received the PCA’s 2023 report? What information is being concealed? Why do internal investigations dominate, even in cases of fatal shootings?
Guyana does not require another public relations campaign or photo opportunity. What is needed are concrete laws and a bold political commitment to reform the police force and restore public
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