THE crime chief’s report that three cops had “apparently” been part of the conspiracy that executed a robbery on the El Dorado Trading Company in the Port Kaituma business area last Friday, has once again turned the spotlight on the Guyana Police Force, where some ranks continue to become participants in serious crimes. This is a growing trend that has within recent years, observed many policemen charged and placed before the courts, with some being convicted.

It cannot be re-emphasised enough as to the importance of a police force in every society. It is an absolute necessity, since it has the peculiar function of the protection of the state and its citizens from criminality of all types, and the maintenance of law and order. It is the indispensable bulwark against anarchy. Therefore, it is the guarantor of the state’s socio-economic well-being, since part of their functions includes safeguarding productive sectors. In simple, plain language – it is the raison d’être for the state’s daily existence.
So citizens’ sharp criticisms and deep anger are understandable when they learn about those charged with their safety, committing acts that are unbecoming of the oath they have taken.
This latest report, if proven true, will not only continue to give credence to what are already the public’s views that our custodians of law and order, are generally part of the criminal fraternity, and cannot be trusted; but will also erode confidence and respect. Indeed, it is a very unfortunate conclusion, since there are many committed policemen dedicated to their daily duties of crime-fighting;like those whose diligent investigations have led to the apprehension of the eight persons, inclusive of the three cops, reportedly involved in this crime.
Even the executive will be greatly disappointed, as the latter has been making many observations and statements directed towards the general force’s conduct, asking that its members carry out their duties in a conscientious and honest manner.
Since, as alluded to above, the police force is that very important institution on which the state depends for its protection. It means that those who are part of this very special dispensation must be aware as to their daily roles and functions. They must be reminded that as lawmen they are held to the highest standards of the law, because they are its chief representatives and their actions at all times must reflect that very special oath, which means that they must serve its best interests, without compromise. For them to be part of any criminal enterprise means a shameful betrayal of the oath taken.
Finally, lest they forget, such actions in which three of their colleagues are now suspects, can only serve to create a further divide between an already skeptical public, and make difficult the job of closer community collaboration in the fight against crime.