The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has announced a remarkable 88% decrease in serious crimes, attributed to enhanced infrastructure and new policies. This reduction includes a 63% drop in murders, an 88% decline in armed robberies, and a 93% decrease in burglaries and larceny.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken confirmed these statistics during an episode of the “Safeguarding the Nation” program, stating, “It is true… Yes, we know crime is down.” Despite the encouraging figures, Hicken acknowledged that public trust remains a challenge due to limited engagement with the police.
To address these concerns, Hicken emphasized the leadership’s commitment to fostering a more welcoming environment within the GPF. “The Guyana Police Force has changed. This is a friendly atmosphere for members of the public. There are no more barriers to communication,” he said, promoting an open-door policy within the Force.
In addition to improving public relations, the GPF has recently implemented a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) governing the use of stun guns, aimed at reducing reliance on lethal force. Hicken noted, “Now we have this stun gun; we can use that rather than using lethal force against members of the Police. That is working for us.”
The police ranks are also being equipped with body cameras to ensure transparency during interactions with the public. Hicken instructed that officers, especially in traffic, should not stop drivers unless they are equipped with a body camera, reinforcing the commitment to accountability.
The GPF is currently governed by six Strategic Plans focusing on development, infrastructure, partnership, operation, performance, and professional accountability, all aimed at enhancing the safety and trust within the communities they serve.
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