WITH combating the scourge of criminal activities high on the agenda of the Security Sector, much more can be done and achieved with the involvement of the general citizenry. For it is a well established fact that communal coordinated activities in conjunction with the established law enforcement agencies, bear very fruitful results as far as crime fighting efforts are concerned. And in Guyana, where the challenge of dangerous crime has been a major pre-occupation with local security forces, it is heartening to see the Security Sector take the lead, as they ought to, in the formation and resuscitation of Community Policing Groups.
The effectiveness of these groups must not be underestimated, since they are the eyes and ears of their respective locales; and the first line of defence against the criminal threat. But they must be managed fairly and properly by community residents who must understand their proper and lawful role; and not use their newly received authority for illegal ends, such as vendettas.
The efforts by this sector are certainly encouraging, and do nail the claims from certain quarters about the state’s inability to battle the criminal threat. But all will have to be involved, given the hydra headed nature of criminality these days. Hence, the resuscitation and establishing of these groups, especially along the coastalways is indeed a step in the right direction.
Every Guyanese must support this very important civic movement; for in doing so, they will also be protecting themselves and family, as well.