THE Guyana Police Force (GPF), on Monday, denied claims that it had been selectively enforcing the COVID-19 regulations against certain businesses, and that those businesses are subjected to harassment by ranks.

The force issued a statement in response to claims made by Chairman of the Giftland Group, Roy Beepat, who, on Sunday, alleged that “the Giftland Group has been subjected to unprecedented selective enforcement of laws and regulations and even harassment by the Guyana Police Force and other regulatory agencies”.

Beepat in a statement noted that on Saturday night last, members of the GPF visited the premises of the Giftland Mall and made “unethical demands” which were refused. Subsequently, the police ranks proceeded to arrest three persons, one each from the Temp, the Boardroom and the Level Restaurants, which he noted were all closed at 21:00hrs.

“We must emphasise that none of these concessions were in breach of any Laws or regulation. This was just vindictive and spitefully done by abuse of power by the Turkeyen Sergeant operating under the Divisional Commander,” Beepat wrote.

The GPF in its statement, however, noted that given the COVID-19 regulations allow for restaurants to operate until 21:30hrs daily; enforcement of those regulations commence after that prescribed time. It was explained that, on Saturday, ranks of the GPF visited the Giftland Mall at approximately 22:10hrs where it was observed that certain bars were still open for business and playing music.

“The Force is not aware of any unethical demands being made by any rank and which was refused; however, three owners of bars that were still open were arrested and the bars closed down. They have been released on bail and are due for court on Tuesday next,” the statement noted.

“It is apt to note that owners of bars in the night spot area had been warned by the police during the previous night of Friday, March 05, 2021, after they were found still being opened after the closing time of 21:30hrs,” the statement added.

Beepat has also alleged that his business was being targetted while other hotels and nightclubs remained open until the wee hours of the morning.

The GPF noted that enforcement of the COVID-19 regulations is being conducted in a professional and impartial manner throughout the country; “one that has nothing at all to do with racial prejudice, corruption or political favoritism as expressed by Roy Beepat”.

The GPF is appealing to citizens to adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines and to report errant establishments to the 911 hotline.