The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has strengthened its crime-fighting capabilities with the acquisition of around 800 body cameras for its officers.
This was disclosed by Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn during a press briefing yesterday, where he highlighted the importance of modern technology in enhancing security measures.
According to Benn, the force received 500 body cameras last year, bringing the total number of devices to 800. He emphasised that police officers are being trained to use the equipment effectively as part of ongoing efforts to ensure greater accountability and transparency in law enforcement.
“The reasons are more or less obvious. We have had situations where there is a questioning about the interaction between the police and the public, there have been questions about professional behaviour or conduct, and there have been a number of assaults of policemen and women.
“So, it’s a move towards engaging and recording and making sure there is sufficient information to determine one way or the other which is the best approach towards resolving an issue,” Benn told reporters.
As part of its efforts to improve operational, investigative, and transparency standards within the GPF, a body-camera training session was recently held at the Bartica Police Station’s Zara Training Centre to familiarize ranks with the functional aspects of the new equipment.
A GPF press release had said that the session was conducted by Constable Bristol of the Force’s Information Technology Department and focused on the operation, use, and maintenance of the body cameras. Officers received thorough training on the features of the devices, including the capturing of digital, audio, and video evidence.
Further, the GPF stated that the body cameras will be decentralized across the regions for use in operations, investigations, and patrols.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken had also issued stern warnings to traffic and patrol ranks to utilize the body cameras effectively, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and engagement with the public. Hicken commended officers in Division 4’A’ for their efforts in 2024, which led to a significant 34% decrease in crime within the division. However, he cautioned officers against stopping vehicles or conducting traffic duties without body cameras.
“Traffic ranks, you are creating embarrassment to this country. So with immediate effect… nobody from traffic is to stop any vehicle or ask for any licence without a body camera, and if you’re caught, you will face the consequences,” Hicken stated.
He had also advised patrol ranks to shift their focus to meaningful community engagement. “Patrol ranks, you are to drive very slowly, have the windows down, and interact with everybody you see,” he directed, emphasizing the need for better public relations and visible policing.
