–          urges vigilance ahead of busy holiday season

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has reported unprecedented progress in crime reduction for 2024, recording the lowest serious crime, murder, robbery, and break-and-enter rates in a decade, according to Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum

During the recent launch of the Guyana Police Force’s Christmas Policing Strategy at the Annex of the Police Officers’ Mess in Kingston, Georgetown, the Crime Chief stated that there was a significant decrease in serious crimes. The number of reported cases dropped to 1,042, a substantial reduction from the 3,925 cases reported in 2015. Additionally, there was a 24.8 per cent decrease in murders compared to the previous year.

The GPF announced a significant decrease in the number of serious crimes, including murders, robberies, and burglaries. The number of serious crime reports decreased significantly to 1,042, a substantial decline from the peak of 3,925 in 2015. The homicide rate declined to 100 cases, a ten-year low, with 88 per cent of victims being male and the majority of incidents involving non-firearm related disputes. The number of robberies declined to 386 incidents, a significant decrease from 1,146 cases in 2019. Similarly, break-and-enter incidents reached a record low of 261 cases, compared to 1,567 incidents in 2015.

Blanhum stated that the GPF had achieved notable success in law enforcement operations. Authorities confiscated an unprecedented number of 162 illegal firearms, consisting of handguns, shotguns, and assault rifles, with many being linked to smuggling operations. Intensified narcotics enforcement resulted in 62 arrests for cocaine trafficking, marking a five-year high, accompanied by an increase in cannabis seizures compared to 2023.

As the holiday season approaches, the GPF has outlined its Christmas policing strategy to safeguard citizens. Measures include increased patrols in busy shopping areas, enhanced traffic management, and stronger community engagement. Intelligence-driven operations will address potential threats, ensuring a secure environment for the festive period.

Reflecting on a decade of progress, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum credited targeted enforcement, intelligence gathering, and community collaboration for the achievements. “Our focus remains on safeguarding the public, addressing criminal activities decisively, and building trust within communities,” he stated.

The GPF has urged citizens to remain vigilant and proactive, emphasising that collective efforts will help sustain these gains and set the stage for continued success in 2025.