Recently sworn in President Irfaan Ali has committed to strengthening the disciplined forces, particularly the Guyana Police Force (GPF) so as to ensure that every citizen is safe.
“Every citizen, every home and every business place must feel safe from criminals and from crime. The air that we breathe in our beloved Guyana must be free of the stench of crime,” Ali said while delivering his inauguration speech yesterday.
He pledged that his government will strengthen the GPF by providing it with the tools needed to keep every citizen safe, including training, modern equipment, adequate vehicles, and the capacity for rapid response.
“Every life in our nation matters, and my government will ensure that every life is protected from harm. It is our duty and our responsibility and we will work towards it,” Ali assured.
The hierarchy of the Guyana Police Force has seen major restructuring following Ali’s swearing in last Sunday.
More than a week ago, Top Cop Leslie James and Deputy Commissioner Maxine Graham proceeded on pre-retirement leave. Deputy Commissioner Nigel Hoppie is now performing duties as the country’s Police Commissioner, while Assistant Commissioner Clifton Hicken is now leading the force’s operations.
Additionally, Senior Superintendent Wendell Blanhum, who had been serving as Commander of Region One, was reassigned to the post of Crime Chief, while Assistant Commissioner Simon McBean, who has been serving as the Commander of Region Three, has been appointed to lead Region Four (A). Senior Superintendent Errol Watts, who had previously headed Region Three, will return to that post.
