Cops record ‘vast’ reduction in serious crime on East Bank

The Police Division on the East Bank of Demerara (4B) has recorded a 23 per cent decrease in serious crimes for the year so far with a 180 per cent clear-up rate.

The success is linked to the robust crime-fighting posture adopted in the division which includes 24-hour police patrol, cordon and search exercises, and spontaneous raids.

“So far, there is a vast reduction in serious crime,” Officer-in-charge of crime in the division, Inspector Henry said.

He added, “We have motorcycles patrolling the areas on a 24-hour basis, and that brings the reduction in the crime…Because of the posture that we adapted, we see a vast reduction and we intend to continue doing that.”

Inspector Henry made the disclosure when he appeared on the Guyana Police Force ‘Police and You’ radio programme on Wednesday.

Serious crimes include offenses such as murders, armed robberies, rape, break and enter and larceny, and kidnapping.

With the Christmas season approaching, Inspector Henry said the division will be rolling out a plan to ensure that crime remains under control.

The plan, he said will see “spotters” being placed at all banks in the division, increased police presence along the roadways as well as placement of mobile police booths.

“Our posture for the Christmas season is clear…There will be more foot patrols, booths…We will be going to the business people as usual advising them, giving the security guard tips,” Inspector Henry said.

He added, “We have a plan in place for persons who want to break the law because persons must have a crime-free Christmas,” Henry said.

During this period, he encourages citizens to avoid moving around with large amounts of cash and to be cognizant of their surroundings.

“As our posture remains, see something, tell a friend, say something.”