GPF beefs up security as Region 7 records spike in murder rates

Region seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) has seen an increase in various crimes over the past year, including one additional murder, bringing the total to 10 for 2024.
However, police ranks are already implementing plans to reduce crime and improve security in the region ahead of 2025.
Commander of Region Seven Senior Superintendent Dion Moore explained this during the launch of the Regional Division Seven Christmas Policing Posture for 2024.

“Our statistics show that the number of murders in 2022, 2023, and 2024: in 2022, we had 15 murders; in 2023, we had 9; and in 2024, there was a slight increase to 10 murders,” Moore stated.
According to the superintendent, several other crimes have also increased, with a particular surge in illegal substances being especially concerning.
“In 2023, we seized 15,667 kg of narcotics, and in 2024, we seized more than double that amount, with 39,881 kg seized,” he said.
For cocaine, the police force recorded 19.3 grams in 2023, compared to 221.1 grams in 2024.
Meanwhile, 10 licensed firearms were confiscated in 2024.
“In 2023, we seized 22 firearms, and in 2024, we still managed to find 10 unlicensed firearms,” Moore stated, while showing the gathering an exact picture of one of the confiscated firearms.
He added, “As for ammunition, in 2023, we seized 143 rounds of various calibres, and in 2024, we seized 461 different calibres, which is a significant increase.”
Notably, 9mm and .223 rounds were the most prevalent ammunition seized.
There was also an increase in armed robberies. However, to combat this, there have been regular firearm operations and increased patrols.
With the Christmas season approaching and these concerns in mind, Moore revealed several tactics aimed at keeping crime levels as low as possible in the region.
“We will implement roadblocks and patrols in the mining areas. The reason for these operations during this period is that many people may need to leave these areas and go home, while others may choose to vandalise or steal. We have established snap and deliberate roadblocks to address this,” Moore explained.
He also highlighted tactics in place for searches of vehicles and persons.
“We will increase daily searches of vessels, vehicles, and pedestrians, which make up the larger group coming into Region 7. We are maintaining collaborative relationships with the business community and other agencies, which is why we have our stakeholders on board.”