The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Tuesday took possession of a Mercedes Benz crime scene vehicle.
The handing over ceremony was held at the Tactical Services Unit, Drill Square, Police Headquarters, Eve Leary.
Before acquiring this modern vehicle, the GPF faced significant limitations in its crime-solving capabilities. A release yesterday from the GPF said that one of the major setbacks was the inability to transport crucial equipment essential for forensic analysis, such as delicate material like blood and DNA samples, along with a photographic studio for capturing critical evidence on-site. This lack of mobility hindered the ability to conduct thorough investigations at crime scenes, often resulting in delays and incomplete data collection.
With the introduction of the new Crime Scene vehicle, these limitations have been effectively addressed. The release said that the vehicle boasts a range of amenities designed to facilitate efficient and comprehensive crime scene processing. From cool storage units for transporting delicate samples to first aid kits and wash sinks aiding in fingerprint processing, the vehicle is outfitted with everything needed to conduct sophisticated forensic analysis on-site.
Additionally, computer workstations, secure lockers, power outlets, solar lighting systems, and tent facilities further enhance the operational capabilities of the force, allowing them to set up functional mobile labs at crime scenes.
With this capability at their disposal, the GPF can now respond to crime scenes with greater speed, accuracy, and effectiveness, allowing the lab to be taken to the crime scene, the release said.
This also increases the chances of gathering crucial evidence that might otherwise have been overlooked or compromised during transportation.
Present at the ceremony were; Minister of Home of Affairs Robeson Benn, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Home Affairs, Andre Ally, Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, Deputy Commissioner ‘Operations’ Ravindradat Budhram and Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum. In brief remarks, Blanhum said that the vehicle will be based at the CID and will be deployed to the various regions as necessary. He assured that there would be a handover/takeover system.
