GPF records decline in crime in Region One after increased patrols, community engagement

Superintendent of Police and Deputy Commander of Regional Division One, James Tappin, has reported a reduction in crime across the region – a positive outcome he attributed to the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) strengthened operational posture, increased patrols and enhanced community partnerships.
Speaking during a recent radio programme, Superintendent Tappin said that the division has seen “a small but meaningful reduction” in crime, noting that the Force’s proactive approach has significantly improved visibility and responsiveness in both urban and remote communities. “We presently enjoy a small reduction in crime, and this has been due to our operational posture,” he explained.

“We’ve had an increase in ground patrols, including vehicle patrols with pickups, ATVs and bikes, as well as boat patrols – because as you know, the region is heavily traversed not only by land but also by air and water. Our policing strategy must therefore reflect that dynamic.”
The senior officer emphasised that the decline in criminal activity is the result of deliberate measures implemented to ensure greater Police presence across the vast region, which spans hundreds of villages and communities. He acknowledged, however, that the size and terrain of the region continue to pose logistical challenges, particularly in delivering consistent policing services to remote hinterland and riverine areas. He explained that due to the region’s vast size and challenging terrain, delivering services to remote communities remains difficult.
As a result, the Police have been relying heavily on community policing group members strategically stationed across the region. Currently, there are over 60 community policing groups comprising more than 500 members operating in over 100 villages and satellite communities. Tappin said these partnerships have proven vital in extending the reach of the Force, improving intelligence gathering, and promoting trust between residents and law enforcement. Turning his attention to domestic violence, the Superintendent revealed that Regional Division One has adopted a firm and structured approach to addressing such cases, ensuring that victims receive both justice and support.
“We have adopted a posture where over 90 per cent of domestic violence cases end up before the court,” he disclosed. “The remaining cases often receive intervention from NGOs (non-Governmental organisations) and support groups that provide counselling and social assistance. Our goal is to ensure that every domestic violence case is effectively and efficiently addressed to prevent escalation, and in some instances, to save lives.”
He emphasised that collaboration with social agencies continues to play a key role in addressing the root causes of domestic and interpersonal violence within the region. With the Christmas season approaching, Superintendent Tappin also outlined the division’s plans to further enhance security and engagement across communities. He revealed that the Force will implement a robust Christmas policing posture designed to ensure public safety, deter criminal activity, and strengthen Police–community relationships. “We will be seeing more engagement between the Police and the community throughout the length and breadth of Regional Division One,” he said. “Expect heightened activities between the Police and their auxiliary units, as well as stronger partnerships with the business community.”
As part of the plan, patrols will be intensified across all sub-districts, including road, river, and ATV patrols. In remote areas, joint service operations involving the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) will also be conducted to ensure a coordinated security presence. “You will also see more foot patrols,” Tappin continued. “Our younger ranks, along with senior supervisors, will be out engaging the business community – sensitising them about safety, security, and their role in keeping our region safe.”
The Deputy Commander further called on residents to take an active role in maintaining safety during the festive period.
“As Sir Robert Peel said, ‘The Police are the public and the public are the Police.’ Crime is everybody’s business,” he stressed. “I urge members of the Region One community to remain vigilant, cooperate with the Police, and share whatever information they have that can help in preventing crime and ensuring peace across the region.” Superintendent Tappin expressed optimism that through sustained collaboration, continuous patrols, and stronger stakeholder partnerships, the division will maintain its downward trend in criminal activity well beyond the holiday season.
“Our goal is to keep Region One safe, secure, and peaceful,” he said. “With the continued support of our community, we are confident that we can build on this progress and further strengthen public trust in the Police.”