THE ‘D’ Division of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) conducted an outreach recently, with the aim of fostering better community relations with citizens.It was held between April 11 and 12, when ranks from West Demerara/East Bank Essequibo ventured into several communities.
Other Divisional Commanders have been engaging in similar programmes, interacting with residents in relation to concerns of mutual interest.
During the engagements in ‘D’ Division the team, headed by the Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Ian Amsterdam, visited Parika, Leonora, Den Amstel, Vreed-en-Hoop, Bagotville and Patentia.
At those meetings, the Police highlighted the need to garner public support in the fight against crime and encouraged residents to form and maintain Community Policing Groups (CPGs).
The Divisional Commander and team listened to the concerns expressed by residents and made suggestions on the way forward, while assuring them that the GPF will continue to act in a professional manner to carry out its mandate of maintaining public safety and security.
Some of the issues raised were Police confidentiality, the attitude of indiscipline by some ranks to members of the public, truancy, removal of tint from motor vehicles, increased patrols and noise nuisance.
Generally, the residents welcomed the Police approach and suggested that the meetings should continue on a monthly basis.
by Michel Outridge