However, Gajraj issued an emphatic statement in regard to the operations.

"The operation is not against Buxtonians. The operation is directed against criminals who seem to think that they can get some refuge in Buxton," Gajraj asserted during an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA).

He noted that although there have been some successes in flushing out some of the criminals in the community, there are some losses including the unfortunate death of Lance Corporal Shemton Dotson. Over the past week, more than 80 houses have been searched and there are numerous persons in Police custody.

According to Gajraj, a number of items have been retrieved from several houses that are used in the operation of criminal activities. He also acknowledged the support that was given by many Buxtonians in the fight against crime.

"There is a remarkable change in the reaction of the Buxton community then and now. Buxtonians have not displayed any intense hostility towards the Police and Army," said Gajraj.

He also commended the work that is being carried out by the Police ranks as being swift and in a civilised manner. Gajraj praised the dedication of the ranks in trying to maintain law and order. There have been several joint operations between the Police and Army on the East Coast of Demerara, which included Operation Plaster of Paris, Operation Tourniquet and Operation Saline.

Since the infamous jailbreak on February 23 last year, Buxton had become a haven for criminal elements in which a number of Policemen and civilians were killed. In addition to these crimes, many high-profile criminals have turned up dead in Buxton. Their bodies bore the signs of execution-style murders.

However, Gajraj noted that there are some media houses which are trying to criminalise members of the Guyana Police Force, while they are performing their duties, that is, to serve and protect the people of Guyana.