IN a significant advancement for the Guyana Police Force’s forensic capabilities, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn officially handed over a 50 BMG Bullet Trap to the Acting Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, during a ceremony at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Brickdam on Tuesday.
This state-of-the-art equipment is set to greatly enhance the Force’s ability to test-fire firearms recovered from crime scenes, marking a major step forward in the fight against gun-related crime.
The 50 BMG Bullet Trap, engineered to safely contain and stop bullets with velocities ranging from 600 FPS to the powerful .50 calibre BMG round, is constructed with AR500 steel and features chunk ballistic rubber material for maximum safety and durability.
Its mobile design allows for easy transportation between locations, and the self-healing front cover ensures it can withstand repeated use, securely capturing rounds within the trap.
Minister Benn highlighted the importance of this acquisition, noting its critical role in strengthening the forensic capabilities of the Guyana Police Force.
“This technology will play a vital role in our ongoing efforts to combat firearms-related crimes,” he said during the ceremony.
The event was also attended by Permanent Secretary, Mr. Andre Ally, Deputy Commissioner ‘Law Enforcement’ Mr. Wendell Blanhum, and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Ms. Jasmin Louisy.
The acquisition of the 50 BMG Bullet Trap was made possible through funding secured by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) from the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL). The funding supports the acquisition of Bullet Catcher Units for three Caribbean countries, including Guyana, and also assists in capacity-building efforts that bolster the work of the Crime Gun Intelligence Unit.
With the ability to capture thousands of rounds before requiring maintenance, the 50 BMG Bullet Trap is expected to be an invaluable asset in the Guyana Police Force’s forensic operations.
CARICOM IMPACS remains committed to working closely with Member States to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat organised crime, with a particular focus on enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies across the Caribbean.
This new equipment not only strengthens Guyana’s ability to tackle gun-related crimes but also reinforces the collaborative efforts between regional and international partners in enhancing security and justice throughout the Caribbean.