Smart, technology-driven police force for crime prevention– Pres. Ali

By adopting smart city technology, the Guyana Police Force can provide better service and offer more protection to citizens.

The technology-driven force was touted by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and President Irfaan Ali at the Guyana Police Force’s Annual Officer’s Conference on Thursday.

The conference is held annually to review and analyse its operations, operational procedures, policing strategies and create plans for the future.

The 2022 three-day conference officially opened on Thursday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Greater Georgetown under the theme: “Promoting Improvement of Public Trust and Confidence, Maintaining Safety and Security through Competence, Professionalism and Partnership”.

President Ali recommitted his support to help transform the Police Force into a more modern and efficient organisation.

He said the government will be investing in technology such as facial recognition and license plate scanners; a countrywide implementation of CCTV cameras and enhanced forensic investigative capacity.

“I have seen the results of intelligence-led police reporting,” President Ali stated.

Meanwhile, the Head of State commended the tremendous improvement of cooperation and coordination between the security agencies; this has resulted in an 18 per cent decrease in serious crime.

“There is a tremendous improvement, a visual improvement in the relationship and support in the members of the joint services,” the President said.

But President Ali said while there is much to celebrate, there is also much to strengthen such as the slothful response to crime reports.

To this end, he said the government will improve communication readiness for rapid response to crime reports; every division will be equipped with modern communication system and an adequate fleet of vehicles.

The President also touted recruiting private security agencies to increase the Force’s crime-fighting strategy.

He noted that the professional and personal development of ranks will continue with international and local training.

Commissioner of Police (acting) Nigel Hoppie during remarks urged ranks to always be professional and to avoid corrupt practices.

Last year, 45 ranks were brought before the court on several offenses, such as manslaughter, assault, murder, robbery, causing death by dangerous driving and an attempt to pervert the course of justice. Commissioner Hoppie revealed that 10 ranks were also charged.

Nevertheless, Hoppie also lauded the exceptional work of the men and women, who continue to serve and protect.