THE Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown have issued a strict warning against crimes of solicitation.

This was revealed by the council’s Public Relations Officer, Debra Lewis, in a press statement to the media on Monday.

The statement read, “The Council wishes to state that, contrary to news being reported in sections of the media, the Council is neither involved in nor has it granted permission to anyone for the collection of monies to enter its markets or for the use of hand-washing sinks placed there.”

Additionally, the council stated that the unauthorized collection of monies by unknown individuals is a crime punishable by law. The Council encouraged the culpable persons to desist from this dishonest act.

It said actions to solicit funds in the name of the organisation, from citizens in this regard, should be reported immediately to the City Constabulary Headquarters, City Hall Compound, Regent Street, Georgetown or to the Guyana Police Force.
Also, the Town Clerk (ag) Sherry Jerrick, has instructed the Chief Constable (ag) Peter Livingstone, to carry out a full investigation into this matter.

The council stated nevertheless that it remains steadfast in the fight against the spread of COVID-19 and is urging members of the general public to remain calm and be resilient in the fight against the deadly virus.

“Let us join in the effort to flatten the curve by practicing good hygiene, social distancing and the use of a face mask if we must leave our homes. Otherwise, let us remain within the confines of our homes, it can save our lives,” the council stated.