The Government of Guyana (GoG) has plans to establish a Border Patrol Unit, the country’s President, Dr Irfaan Ali has disclosed. His revelation comes at a time when the nation’s western continental neighbour, Venezuela, has intensified claims to a section of Guyana’s territory.
The Head of State said that ‘special legislation’ is being drafted to allow for the operationalisation of this unit. The establishment of this division, along with other initiatives, will further aid in ensuring the safety of Guyanese, he added.
“No country or society can progress without ensuring the safety and security of its people. We are committed to the reform of the security sector, the update of laws, strengthening of capacity, and building institutions that will support plans and programmes for safer communities and country,” he told the House this afternoon.
He said that the government has already commenced tackling crime at the community level by strengthening community policing, intelligence services, and widening focus on making existing institutions stronger.
“We’re investing in new and appropriate technologies, providing tools and equipment to allow for better response to crime and more proactive policing, whilst at the same time, we’ll be working on the improvement of welfare and conditions of service for our men and women in uniform.”
He added that critical to the strategic approach to crime fighting, is the strengthening of the regionalised structure of the Guyana Police Force. To this end, he noted that greater integration with interest groups and stakeholders at the regional level will be facilitated to improve accountability and transparency in crime fighting.
