Private security firms were last Saturday warned by the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) against the use of sirens and flashing lights on their vehicles in violation of the laws of the country.
A release issued by the GPF stated that during a meeting at the Police Officer’s Training Centre, Traffic Chief, Superintendent Dennis Stephen, told the private security firms that, “security vehicles are not considered ‘emergency vehicles’ like those used by the police, fire, and ambulance. Private security services must therefore adhere to all applicable laws and regulations regarding traffic and refrain from operating vehicles with sirens and/or flashing lights.”
The GPF urged the firms to make regular checks on their weapons and to accept accountability for their employees’ actions, since there has been a rise in cases which required the involvement of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’ (ag) Ravindradat Budhram also spoke to the private firms and said, “While it is the responsibility of private firms to provide quality service to their clients, it is also critical to improve training in their organization…”
Budhram went on to say that many infractions have occurred as it relates to the securing of firearms. He noted that when the security employees are relieved of their duties or even when they are on duty, the security of firearms is not in keeping with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs) which he said needs to be immediately rectified.
As a result of these infractions, Budhram encouraged both the proprietors and their senior staff to conduct frequent training within their organizations to supplement their services’ efficiency. He also said that his office “will co-ordinate refresher training for members of the security sector.” The GPF’s Deputy Commissioner (ag) said that once those infractions are resolved then the private security sector can make a valuable contribution to the country’s security. But the Deputy Commissioner (ag) warned that if they were to continue, then the private security firms can be placed under ‘unique governance issues’ which eventually will hinder development.
