GPF gears up for massive transformation with $30.3B allocation in National Budget

– enhancing capabilities is main priority

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has been allotted a whopping $30.3 billion in the 2024 national budget, and this is geared at enhancing its capabilities as this allocation is aimed at fortifying law enforcement capabilities while investing in vital infrastructure for the overarching development of the Guyana Police Force.
During the Home Affairs ‘Agency Review and 2024 Projections Conference’, the Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, lauded the growth and advancement of the Guyana Police Force, and said he is cognisant of the need to ensure the provision of essential resources to Guyana’s premier law enforcement agency in order to elevate its operational capacity.

Minister Benn has said the ongoing training programmes and investments in modern facilities are pivotal to propelling the Force towards contemporary law enforcement standards. With a keen eye on adapting to emerging challenges, Minister Benn reiterated, Government is committed to providing the resources needed to propel the Guyana Police Force along its current rapid growth trajectory.
In addition, Minister Benn has highlighted the significant increase in training programmes for members of the Guyana Police Force, and underscored the importance of equipping officers and ranks with the necessary skills to navigate complex security challenges. He expressed optimism about the Guyana Police Force’s positive growth and development trajectory, despite the Force encountering setbacks.
Acting Commissioner Clifton Hicken has echoed Minister Benn’s sentiments and affirmed that the Force has an unwavering dedication and commitment to upholding law and order, and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens while embracing technological and infrastructural advancements.
Commissioner Hicken noted that, under his leadership, the Guyana Police Force has embarked on strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement, proactive policing, and leveraging data-driven approaches to crime prevention.
Commissioner Hicken has also emphasized the importance of fostering trust and collaboration between the Police and the community, highlighting the Force’s role as a partner in promoting safety and security for all Guyanese citizens.
Hicken further added that community outreaches can yield invaluable insights into community concerns, fostering a deeper understanding of community dynamics and needs. This, he said, simply means that, through these initiatives, the GPF cultivates trust and cooperation, strengthening its bond with residents.
Additionally, he said these interactions serve as platforms for educating the public on crime prevention strategies, and promoting collaboration in maintaining public safety. Overall, the community outreaches empower both the Police Force and the public, contributing to safer communities, and by extension a safer Guyana.
He indicated that the Guyana Police Force Academy plays a pivotal role in the development of its members, serving as a hub for continuous learning and professional growth through rigorous training programmes and specialised courses.
The Academy, which attained accreditation in 2023, will continue to equip ranks with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively fulfil their sworn duty to serve and protect.
Commissioner Hicken also highlighted collaborative efforts with the Zara Centres across the country to educate members of the public. This collaboration, he noted, underscores the Force’s dedication to engage in community involvement and empowerment. (GPF)