Commissioner of Police (ag) Nigel Hoppie commended the ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for their performance in ridding the streets of 71 illegal firearms in 2021 and 16 illegal firearms for the first three months of 2022.
The Top Cop made remarks at the Annual Police Officers’ Conference on Thursday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre where he reported that there has been a decline in serious crimes.
Serious crimes are on the decline at the rate of 16 per cent when compared to the same period last year. There has been a 16.6 per cent decrease in murders when compared to the same period in 2021.
The Police have also conducted several marijana eradication exercises in an effort to rid communities of illicit drugs.
Commissioner Hoppie noted that the Police Force is working assiduously to combat the threat of trafficking in persons (TIP) and domestic violence and as such ranks are currently trained in the COPS Squad in dealing with such issues.
He specifically highlighted the importance of the Conference — where Officers can view and analyse the operations, administrative procedures, policing challenges, strategies and plans for the future towards the continuous maintenance of the mandate of promoting safety and security.
He went on to note that despite the many challenges, the GPF continues to remain committed to its mandate through intelligence-led policing, thus leading to significant efforts to reduce the crime rate and road fatalities.
“In regards to criticism that continues to be made against members of the Police Force, persons tend to forget the exceptional work done by many police ranks who despite the criticism and challenges, worked to implement strategies towards the undying nature of Police commitment to ensure public safety and security,” the Police Commissioner added.
The Top Cop also reminded the gathering that the Force is battling with deviant behaviour of ranks particularly in corruption, noting that they are trying to tarnish and undermine the great strides made thus far.
“In spite of the many challenges the Guyana Police Force has done well and have prevailed in keeping with the mandate”, Hoppie added.
With this in mind, Commissioner Hoppie urged members of the Police Force to always be professional in their behaviour and conduct and show courtesy towards members of the public and to avoid corrupt practices.
“Let us build bridges and improve our image in order to enhance public trust and confidence which are so essential for good policing.”
Hoppie also noted that the Police Force has sustained its reputation of upholding courage, impartiality and service to the public over many years.
Moreover, he said it is important that the integrity, reputation and tradition of the Force remain. With the help of God, Commissioner Hoppie said he trusts that the organisation will be held high moving forward.
