– Residents complained about lack of trust for police officers, impounding of buses without explanation, bribe taking, noise nuisance among other issues
THE Ministry of Home Affairs, in its continued commitment to address community security concerns on the East Coast of Demerara, held the 20th meeting since the outreach commenced for 2011. According to a report from the Government Information Agency (GINA), the meeting was held at the Enterprise Primary School where Minister of Home Affairs Mr. Clement Rohee met with residents.
Community Policing Groups (CPGs) offer support to the Guyana Police Force and assist in the fight against crime in their respective communities.
At the meeting, GINA said residents had the opportunity to share issues as it relates to security in the community.
Issues highlighted by residents include lack of trust for police officers, impounding of buses without explanation, land being allocated to residents and are left to grow bushes which ultimately create a haven for criminals, bribe taking, noise nuisance especially from private vehicles, presence of detectives at the Vigilance Police Station to take statements, police actions towards residents, illegal activities by drug dealers and corruption.
Suggestions were made by residents for traffic ranks to visit schools and teach students the correct way of using the road.
One resident said the number of road accidents can be prevented/reduced if this is done.
In responding to the concern, Divisional Commander Deryck Josiah, said members of the Police Force need the cooperation of parents and teachers in imparting knowledge of proper road use to children. As such, he is urging parents and schools to assist in this regard.
Residents also pleaded with the authorities to seriously consider imposing a ban on private vehicles that play loud music, and they were promised intervention in the matter.
Addressing the impounding of minibuses, Josiah said the most recent exercise was part of an ongoing traffic campaign in which vehicles were kept for various traffic violations.
He said that in addressing allegations and concerns, the support is needed by the persons who make the allegation to come forward with detailed information so that necessary actions can be taken.
Minister Rohee said the relationship between communities and police is vital for development and urged that the parties communicate as often as possible; this will result in police having critical information on what happens in the community. This will also go a long way in strengthening police/community relations.
Rohee made it clear that the only persons that stand to benefit when the police and communities are apart are the criminals.
In recent years, Government has been supporting the work of CPGs across Guyana. It has also been equipping the groups with motorcycles, vehicles and boats so as to boost their capabilities.