The Minister provided updates on the work and status of the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Fire Service and the Guyana Prison Service, at a year-end media conference held at the GTV - 11 studio, Homestretch Avenue.

According to Minister Gajraj, there have been several developments in the law enforcement arena, although the number of ranks lost in the line of duty was higher than any other year the Police Force has forged ahead.

"At the same time and in the face of this serious threat, it must be recognised that the ranks have conducted themselves courageously under life threatening situations. They have and are maintaining vigilance and are prepared to face whatever situations confront them," he told reporters.

Due to the upsurge in criminal activities throughout the country, and more so in the Region Four area following the February 23 prison break, there has been a deep sense of fear and anxiety in society and Gajraj said the Home Affairs Ministry and the Joint Services share those concerns.

He pointed out that "during the anti-crime operations there have been several confrontations between the Police and criminals (and) a total of sixty-seven illegal firearms and sixteen grenades were seized during these raids."

Raids were carried out in several areas, which have been referred to as "safe havens" and were found to be properties rented to them by citizens, whether knowingly or unknowingly, he said.

He assured that the Police Force will continue to carry out its constitutional responsibility to protect and serve the citizens of this country and expressed the hope that the current crime situation will be brought to a more manageable level in the near future."

He said, too, that a number of measures were implemented this year, which include:

** Over $200M spent on improved weaponry, protective equipment and gears, transportation and the communication facilities. Additionally, it is anticipated that in 2003 and 2004 a similar amount of money will be allocated to further upgrade the capabilities of the Police Force, which will be in addition to the regular budgetary allocation.

** A comprehensive review of the intelligence unit was done with the view to strengthen the unit. Training on various strategies, tactics and leadership as well as the use of modern weapons and specialised training to respond to the current crime techniques is ongoing.

** Existing legislation on crime was reviewed and Parliament approved four anti-crime Bills and is considering another Bill, which was introduced at the last sitting.

** Community Policing Groups are benefiting from additional support from the Force and more emphasis is being placed on better coordination between the Police Force and Community Policing Groups. Ranks have also been engaged in forming clubs geared towards engaging youths in activities, which will benefit the society.

** Rehabilitation of Police Stations is ongoing across the country.

** An enhanced welfare package for law enforcement officers was implemented to provide for occupational risks. Government made available $20M, which was placed in a fund controlled by the Police Force for the dependants of the Policemen and women who are killed in encounters with criminals.

The Home Affairs Minister also reiterated Government's position on the crime situation saying that no effort or resource would be spared in the fight against crime.

The Minister pointed out that during the festive season, the number of ranks has been increased in strategic locations. He also stressed that citizens need to be cautious to ensure their safety.

The Traffic Department has also deployed ranks across the country to strategic locations to deal with the increased vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

Minister Gajraj thanked the Traffic Department for the work it has done throughout the year and noted that there have also been new initiatives in the traffic department including the change in the road laws.

Legislation was presented and passed in Parliament, which makes it mandatory for persons travelling in the front seats of four-wheel vehicles to wear seatbelts. The seat belt laws come into effect on January 1, 2003.

The traffic department has also received 11 new motorcycles to enhance the mobility of the Force and they will be distributed this week to various locations.

Gajraj also recognised the improvements in the Prison Service, which includes increased staff strength; the appointment of a staff welfare officer; rehabilitation of armouries at the New Amsterdam, Mazaruni and Timehri prisons; and enhanced security capabilities at the Georgetown Prison.