Seeking an increase in public support and trust, the Guyana Police Force officially launched its annual Christmas Policing Plan yesterday with the safety of citizens and the smooth flow of traffic as the main priorities.
The plan which is scheduled to commence today and conclude on January 15, 2017 was unveiled by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, Commander of ‘A’ Division Clifton Hicken and Traffic Chief Deon Moore during a media briefing held at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary.
The policing plan was formulated after all the divisional heads met and discuss how to reduce and control crime, build confidence, reduce traffic accidents and traffic congestion during the Christmas season. The plan entails patrols, the setting up of booths, raids, roadblocks and river patrols.
Hicken told reporters that ‘A’ Division has been divided into five sections each being commanded by an assistant superintendent accompanied by an inspector. He said there will be more foot patrols by police ranks as well as an increase in the presence of the mounted branch. In addition there will be an increase in “vehicle patrols around the city especially hotels, night spots, banks, post offices and other business places and emphasis will also be placed on noise nuisance,” he said.
Special arrangements will also be made by the force for traditional late night Christmas Eve shopping as well as Old Year’s night celebrations.
Moore said that as part of the Traffic Department’s role, the recently launched Operation Safeway will continue and special emphasis will be placed on speeding, driving under the influence and double parking.
Moore said several streets will also become no-entry zones to facilitate the traffic congestion and tow trucks will be on stand-by for any breach in traffic laws.
Blanhum urged members of the public to always secure their homes while noting the increase of break and enter and larceny. He said while there have been many successes in crime-solving during the year there are some existing challenges including instances where victims and business places refused to grant police access to CCTV footage of crime scenes or witnesses were reluctant to provide information or statements.
