HOME Affairs Minister Clement Rohee has assured the public of safer Christmas shpping, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported yesterday.
He said enhanced Police presence in the city and its environs is contributing to the reduction of criminal activities in major shopping areas.
I want Guyanese and other shoppers to know that they are in safe hands. This is precisely what this increased Police presence is all about and, so far, it is working, Mr. Rohee said, adding that the ranks are doing all they can to ensure shoppers are not at risk.
The Police are out there to ensure that shoppers do their shopping or other activities in an atmosphere where the service and protection of the Police Force is manifested in a way that they can feel comfortable, he reiterated.
The Police Force unveiled its Christmas anti-crime plan last November 10 and announced that it would be led by Senior Superintendent Steve Merai.
At the launch, in Georgetown on November 15, 126 ranks complemented the already existing quota in the city, involving additional foot and even river patrols, security booths at strategic locations, increased raids, other special operations and more roadblocks.
The Coordinator, Commander of A Division, Assisstant Commissioner Paul Slowe indicated that this operation would not replace the current security arrangements. Rather it would help reduce crime and anticipate bandits who may use the presence of a greater number of shoppers on the streets as an opportunity to strike, he said.
Another hope is that it would lead, as well, to fewer traffic accidents and reduce congestion, he said.
GINA said, since its implementation, members of the public have expressed satisfaction with the plan and spoke of a more comfortable feeling as they move about in the capital.