ECD records double-digit decrease in crime as Police enforce stringent measures

In recent months, there has been a noteworthy decline in serious crimes along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), marking a significant 10 per cent reduction in criminal activities for the year.
This positive trend was confirmed by Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram, the Police Commander of Region 4C, during his appearance on the GPF’s “Police and You” radio programme.
Pareshram, accompanied by Deputy Commander Jermine Dufu, shared insights into the ongoing efforts to maintain public safety.
According to Pareshram, the majority of these crimes are opportunistic rather than premeditated acts. He said criminals seize unguarded moments to engage in unlawful activities.
Region 4C, which encompasses areas from Industry to the Mahaica Bridge, has witnessed a transformation due to burgeoning housing and industrial projects as well as the construction of new roads.
Despite these positive developments, the Commander said the region faces challenges, primarily stemming from its large population.
“The entire Division is being transformed drastically in terms of infrastructure…presently we also have the two road networks being added to the corridor, that is the Railway Embankment that is now being transformed into a four-lane along with another… these are posing challenges to us,” he said.
To counteract these challenges, the Police Force has implemented a stringent plan, focusing on increased visibility and proactive measures within communities. Ranks are strategically deployed to deter criminals, ensuring a robust presence in various neighbourhoods.
This plan involves intensified sting operations and Police roadblocks. While these operations might inconvenience the public at times, the authorities urged citizens to cooperate and support these efforts.
However, Dufu emphasised that such inconveniences serve as essential deterrents, hindering criminals from freely engaging in activities involving firearms and drugs.
“There are some operations that sometimes may inconvenience members of the public. We do sometimes receive backlashes in relation to our roadblocks…We are asking persons to abide with us and bear with us,” he said.
Further, Dufu highlighted the Division’s commitment to professionalism among its ranks during these operations.
According to the officers, unprofessional conduct will not be tolerated, and they encourage the public to report any misconduct. The Division aims to maintain a high standard of professionalism, ensuring that its operations withstand scrutiny.
Should any officer fall short of these standards, the officer said action will be taken after a thorough investigation, underscoring the Division’s dedication to upholding law and order in the region.