As the Christmas season rapidly approaches, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) are cautioning individuals that the illegal use of explosives will see them facing the full force of the law.

Although numerous raids have been conducted by both parties in the past, the most recent being during the Diwali holiday, many Guyanese continue to disregard the ban on explosives. As such, Commander of ‘A’ Division, Marlon Chapman, said the Police Force will be utilising different strategies to daily combat the issue which continues to be a nuisance to man and beasts. “As commander of the ‘A’ Division I have some concerns about that and what I can tell you is this, the campaign will be intensified throughout the division because my belief is that everyone must have comfort, whether in the confines of their homes or not,” the Commander indicated.

While much of the operation plans cannot be exposed, Chapman was stern in stating that prosecution will be brought against those who are found in default. He highlighted that while some found the explosives to be entertaining, they were simultaneously being inconsiderate of other parties involved. “They have to understand that those things…can cause problems especially in the animal world. For example, horses when they hear the sound of those crackers they behave in a manner which can endanger persons…and likewise other animals,” the Commander expressed.

He also said, “A sick person might be in a house, or a vehicle or walking on the road and that explosion can cause that person to be more sick. It affects children… We have learn to be considerate to others as we would like for ourselves.” The GRA, knowledgeable of its role in the matter, has stepped up enforcement activities at the country’s border locations to prevent the smuggling of firecrackers, squibs and other pyrotechnics.

This is according to Assistant Commissioner within the Law Enforcement Department, Jason Moore, who said that these items fall within section 218 of the Customs Act. “We would like the general public to know that it is unlawful and persons caught with these items or any other uncustomed item (items for which no duty or tax was paid) will be prosecuted in accordance with the provision of the Customs Act,” Moore stated.

Since his management of ‘A’ Division, Chapman said that the police force has been receiving considerable support from the GRA. This, he is confident will steadily improve and continue throughout the season.
Both the GRA and the GPF believe that the level of seriousness demonstrated by Guyanese on the issue leaves much to be desired. Moore highlighted that certain communities take it more seriously than others.

Chapman, however, encourages members of the public to speak up, and to be assured that those with information on the illegal use of explosives can be certain that their information will be treated with strict confidentially. The Commander said that persons with information can contact the nearest police station, while the GRA advises the public to express their concerns on its intelligence hotline number: 227-6060 extensions: 1201- 1204.