The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), has noted what appears to be an increase in crimes recently— contrary to reports emerging from the Guyana Police Force— and emphasised that it falls to the government to provide an environment where citizens feel safe.
FITUG noted that based on its engagements with affiliates and on news reports and social media posts, the organisation could not help but be concerned by “what appears to be a rising spate of criminality in our society”.
“The FITUG has seen, in practically all corners of our country, reports about people being the victims of crime. Some incidents, we note too, have resulted in the untimely death of victims. This is a situation we can neither condone nor be happy about. At this time, we well recognize that our people are genuinely afraid about whether they will be the next victim. This is not the state-of-mind that our people should ever have to contend with,” the organisation stated in a press release.
“We have seen also media reports which illustrate, from police statistics, that crime is on the decline. Those conclusions, it seems, does not corroborate with the reality on the ground. Whether all crimes are actually reported is something that should be verified. If it is the case that our people have decided not to report such acts, it says a lot in our view, about the confidence in those charged with maintenance of public order and security,” it also stated.
It was pointed out that even with surveillance footage clearly depicting the perpetrators of these crimes sometimes being shared, the exposure seems to have no impact on those involved.
“This again is another cause for concern,” FITUG observed. “Is it a case that those involved in such acts, though apparently known, are not afraid of the repercussion of their acts? If this is indeed the case, we ask why?”
FITUG then turned its attention to the Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, and his stated position on the matter.
“From the Minister’s utterances, we cannot help but conclude that he is at sea when it comes to grasping with the gravamen of the situation at hand. It appears that the Minister may need assistance from his colleagues who have experience in the security sector,” FITUG opined.
“Moreover, we believe, there is need for a concerted plan to address the situation at hand and bring reprieve to our people who must contend with various criminal activities. The need for a safe and secure society cannot be underscored. The need for our people to have peace of mind is important on so many fronts. We look to the Government, obviously, to provide such an environment where our people can feel confident that they can be in their homes or go about their business with the least of fear,” the statement added.
