Amerindian leaders on Tuesday flayed the government and the Guyana Police Force for delays in gun licences issuance and ammunition acquisition, the handling of domestic violence and having to travel to Georgetown to obtain a passport.
These issues were raised during the ongoing National Toshaos Council conference at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara.
According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), during a meeting with Home Affairs Ministry officials and police top brass, toshaos lamented that they often experience difficulties in accessing ammunition. In response, Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell informed that licensed firearm holders can place their orders at the nearest police station and the police officers will take on the responsibility of acquiring it.
The police commissioner urged the Amerindian leaders to work closely with ranks of the force, particularly with divisional commanders. The toshaos also spoke of the need for public education on social ills such as drug use.
Crime Chief Seelall Persaud assured that the force is prepared to deal with this issue, from an awareness standpoint, as well as from an enforcement perspective.
With regard to the processing and issuance of passports, toshaos were told that if they have in their possession, the relevant documentation and can submit their applications early, the passport office will fast-track their applications
Rural constables
In an effort to boost law enforcement efforts in the hinterland, more than 100 toshaos and senior councillors took the oath of office as rural constables (RCs) on Wednesday.
on an issue from the police top brass
Senior Superintendent Courtney Ramsey, who currently heads the ‘F’ Division, spoke at length of the force’s responsibilities as defined in the Police Act. He explained in great detail the provisions of the Disciplined Act Chapter 17:01, which speaks to role of RCs. These constables essentially support the efforts of police by executing police-related duties in their respective communities, to ensure the maintenance of law and order.
However, the RCs were reminded that their presence should, in no way, hamper regular policing. If confronted with serious situations, they are mandated to request backup and notify police ranks, who are trained to handle such matters.
Superintendent Ramsey said RCs must function as peace officers, mediators, negotiators, and mentors.
Crime Chief Persaud explained that as long as there is cause for suspicion, toshaos who are sworn RCs have the authority to conduct stop and search activities on vehicles and boats and make arrests once those suspicions have been confirmed.
Toshaos requested more equipment such as batons, handcuffs and land and water transport, which Commissioner Brumell said are issues that can be worked out at the level of the Home Affairs and Amerindian Affairs ministries.
Amerindian leaders of Region Nine were informed that the Force will be working to resuscitate dormant policing groups in their communities. Brumell assured the leaders that the Guyana Police is willing to do all that is necessary to address most, if not all of their issues, to ensure the maintenance of their rights to live in safe communities.
