On his first official visit to Berbice yesterday, acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud heard from residents that piracy was a key problem and he acknowledged that it was a major concern.
Continuing the force’s effort to strengthen ties with communities, Persaud interacted with residents on the Corentyne from Corriverton and Friendship.
When the floor was opened for discussion at both forums, the predominant concern raised was piracy. In recent weeks, around 10 men have either been killed or are missing and feared dead after piracy attacks on the Corentyne.
While many persons asked what is being put in place, an executive member of the Upper Corentyne Chamber
and Commerce and Industry stated that there needs to be better communication between Surinamese and Guyanese lawmen. The man suggested that the two neighbouring countries should work to create a joint force in an effort to put a stop to the constant attacks. He explained that the joint force is needed since the officers are handicapped when it comes to fighting the crime and it is frustrating to fishermen and their families because lawmen cannot do every much due to the border and territorial difficulties.
He went on to say that piracy on the Corentyne continues to create havoc between employees and employers. He explained that fishermen are afraid for their lives and employers lose millions.
Meanwhile, an executive member of the #66 fisheries complex echoed these concerns. He said there has been a high record of deaths at the complex from the piracy forays. He went on to say that the fisheries officials find it very hard to see families seeking answers to no avail. He also complained about lawmen taking statements from survivors and victims of piracy and then they are told that because the act was committed in Suriname waters nothing could be done.
Addressing the concerns, Persaud said that piracy has been engaging the attention of the highest levels of the government and is a major concern.
“Under President (Bharrat) Jagdeo there had been an engagement with the Surinamese President Desi Bouterse regarding security,” he said. It was explained that the plans worked well. “Each organisation in the security sector would reach counterparts in Suriname and work out strategies in which they could have work done,” Persaud said. It was also stated that when President Donald Ramotar took over office, he took a team of security heads to Suriname and discussions were held and there has been constant follow up.
Additionally, the Top Cop addressed the situation of border and territorial disputes that are hindering investigations. He explained that in Guyana they can only investigate criminal activities within the country’s border. Anything beyond the border is beyond their jurisdiction. However, he explained that there is an understanding between the Surinamese and Guyanese law enforcement. “We have a history of working together with Suriname. We would engage in joint investigation on piracy that is committed in Suriname waters,” he said.
Persaud went on to say that, the Guyana Police force has launched a campaign that aims to foster better relationship between the community and the police. Earlier, the Top Cop said that the reason for the visit was to primarily get a feedback from the public. He noted that from the few months of implementation of community “interaction and integration,” the force has seen tremendous success and a reduction in criminal activities. It was stated that serious crime has been reduced by 10%. He however, noted that there has been a slight increase in armed robberies.
Some of the other issues discussed were the hectic and frustrating wait persons endure at the passport office, the issuing of firearm licences, the crime situation nationwide and in the county, traffic offences and the lack of patrols by officers. An officer from the Police Complaints Authority was also present and recorded complaints.
