THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has taken note of a publication circulating on social media containing allegations that several police and immigration ranks operating along the Lethem Trail and in Lethem have been receiving payments to facilitate the movement of foreign nationals.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the police said given the serious nature of the allegations, Commissioner of Police, Dr Clifton Hicken, has directed the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) to immediately launch an investigation to determine the circumstances and veracity of the claims made in the publication.

“Commissioner Hicken has made it clear that corruption and misconduct have no place in the Guyana Police Force and that no rank will be shielded where evidence establishes wrongdoing. He stressed that any member of the Force found to have acted unlawfully or in breach of established regulations will be dealt with condignly in accordance with the law and established disciplinary procedures,” the statement said adding that the law enforcement entity is encouraging any person who may be in possession of information or evidence relevant to these allegations to make same available to the OPR to assist with the investigation.

“The GPF remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, accountability and integrity among its ranks,” the statement further said.