Police, army to deal with “potential security threat,” increased crimes

Last Updated on Friday, 11 November 2016, 18:00 by Denis Chabrol

The Guyana government says it has “received credible information related to a potential domestic security threat” resulting in the need for a joint police and army operation on Saturday.

“That coupled with increased criminal activity has resulted in the decision by the Administration to institute security measures in targeted areas, starting tomorrow (Saturday).

The announcement of the joint services operation comes amid a growing outcry about a spate of armed robberies mainly on businesses. Although police are using statistics to prove its position that there has been a 17 to 21 percent decrease in serious crimes, there are daily armed robberies.

These operations will be conducted by the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

Government says citizens can expect to see helicopters providing aerial coverage and an increased number of police officers, along with members of the GDF on the ground in certain areas.  Citizens are asked not be alarmed but to cooperate with security forces where necessary.

“The safety of all residents and visitors to Guyana remains a top priority for the administration,” the Ministry of the Presidency said in a statement.