Former Traffic Chief appointed new E Division Commander

E Division (Linden- Kwakwani) now has a new Police Commander at its Headquarters in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice). Superintendent Ramesh Ashram took over from senior Superintendent Linden Lord, commencing duties on Wednesday.

New E Division (Linden- Kwakwani) Commander, Superintendent Ramesh Ashram

The new Divisional Commander, who is a former traffic chief, has 30 years’ experience in the Guyana Police Force (GPF). He has outlined plans to continue along the path of working along with the citizens of the community in the fight against crime. Speaking with this publication on Friday, Ashram cited the 20 per cent decrease in crime, which the Division recorded this year, noting that the crime-fighting strategies of the GPF will be maintained.
In highlighting issues faced by the Division such as rape, domestic violence, assault, petty theft and welfare issues, the new Commander indicated that it is a “relatively a quiet area”. He pointed out, however, that there is a trend as it relates to issues, such as rape, which are being reported in the riverine Kwakwani area. The new Divisional Commander asserted, however, that there is a presence of Community Policing Group (CPG) members and Rural Constables who assist the Police in the area.
He added that there is an open-door policy and residents can feel free to visit or call him at the Divisional Headquarters regarding any complaints. Ashram further outlined plans to have Police sergeants conduct community outreaches in their respective districts as he noted that he is in the process of assessing, prior to implementing plans and strategies. One such plan, he highlighted, is the re- introduction of once-a-month mass patrols.
The new Divisional Commander pointed out that in the meantime, there are regular ongoing lectures at schools on topics such as road safety and that those with ranks who are trained to facilitate the Drug Addiction Reduction Education (DARE) programme. He also outlined plans to continue social programmes such as the Scout initiative.
In looking at the programmes already ongoing in the Division, Ashram said the Police 24- hour roadblock initiative at Bamia, which commenced in April along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, is one which has been welcomed by residents and has proven to be very effective. He noted that there is also a 24-hour vehicular patrol in Linden.
Ashram also explained that while there will be challenges, he plans to overcome them given his 30 years of experience.