Members of the Bush Lot Community Policing Group who were recognized for their good work were presented with ‘high-tech’ equipment and gear recently to aid in their crime fighting efforts.
David Olstad, a Canadian who resides in the United States, handed over “professional quality walkie-talkies” that have a 25-mile range, state-of-the-art flashlights with rechargeable batteries and reflective caps and vests to the men.
He told Stabroek News that during his visit to Bush Lot last year with his Guyanese wife, he “saw the men trying to make their village safe and I was moved by their good work.”
Olstad is pleased that the group’s effort is making him feel safe when he visits yearly and said his relatives who live in Bush Lot would also be more protected.
During a simple handing over ceremony, Olstad told this newspaper that the reflective caps and vests would help the members to have a “distinctive look.”
He promised that the contribution would not be the last and plans that when he returns to America he would be seeking donations from Guyanese living there.
He said he plans to solicit safety boots and night vision goggles for the members to make them more efficient. He also wished to see more donations from persons in Bush Lot.
Officer-in-charge of the Fort Wellington Police Station, Sergeant Orin Fraser who was present at the handing over ceremony lauded Olstad’s efforts and said the “donation would go a far way in assisting the members to do their work.”
He reiterated that “it would be good if others can follow and do the same for the other groups” and expressed gratitude to Olstad on behalf of the police and the group.
Chairman of the group, Anand (only name) also thanked Olstad for the items and assured him that they “would care them and put them to good use.” He encouraged him to “donate more” and get other persons to come on board.