Home Affairs Minister visits border outposts, engages Region 1 residents

Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn conducted a high-level inspection of critical security infrastructure projects in the Imbotero area as part of the Government’s ongoing push to strengthen law enforcement capacity and border security.
The visit on Saturday focused on two major undertakings, the near-completion of the Imbotero Police Station and the ongoing construction of a new wharf and boathouse. These projects fall under the broader national security enhancement programme aimed at bolstering public safety, especially in remote and riverine communities.

The reconstruction of the Imbotero Police Station, valued at $144.9 million, is now 98 per cent complete. Once operational, the upgraded facility is expected to improve law enforcement delivery in the border village and surrounding communities.
“We are not just building structures—we’re reinforcing the foundation of safer, more resilient communities,” Benn said during the site inspection. “Modern police stations like this one give officers the tools and environment they need to serve with professionalism and dignity. And just as importantly, they send a message to citizens that their safety and wellbeing matter.”
Benn emphasised that the new station also reaffirms the Government’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence along Guyana’s borders.
Meanwhile, work is ongoing on the construction of the Imbotero Wharf and Boathouse, which is currently 60 per cent completed. The facility will include a fixed ramp, walkway and floating dock and will play a critical role in enabling swift riverine patrols by the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
“This is a strategic investment in infrastructure that enables real-time secure and effective border operations,” the Minister explained. “In communities like Imbotero, where waterways are lifelines, these facilities are not just helpful—they are essential.”

Permanent Secretary Ally reiterated the ministry’s commitment to ensuring quality execution and timely delivery of the projects. “Every dollar spent must translate into improved service delivery, stronger institutions, and greater value for the people of Guyana,” he stated.
Benn was accompanied by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Andre Ally; Deputy Commissioner of Police ‘Operations’, Errol Watts; and Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Khrisnadat Ramana. The team met with contractors and technical personnel on the ground to review progress and address any implementation issues.

Direct engagement
In addition to the inspections, Benn conducted an impromptu outreach in the village of Imbotero, where he met with residents to listen to their concerns and share updates on national and regional security matters. Despite the unscheduled nature of the visit, villagers welcomed the opportunity to engage with the Minister and his team.
He assured residents of the Government’s commitment to improving their quality of life through enhanced public safety and infrastructure investments. “Maintaining open lines of communication between Government and citizens is fundamental to our work,” Minister Benn told the gathering.

Floating Police Station
As part of Saturday’s outreach, Minister Benn also visited the MB Tamakay—Guyana’s floating police station anchored along the Waini River in Region One. Accompanied by Ministry and police officials, he met with officers stationed onboard to assess their living conditions, receive operational briefings, and discuss law enforcement challenges in the riverine corridor.
The MB Tamakay plays a vital role in securing Guyana’s river borders and acts as a mobile base for police operations. Its presence supports crime prevention, emergency response, and community safety in the Barima-Waini district.
Minister Benn lauded the officers for their dedication to service under challenging conditions and reaffirmed the Government’s ongoing support for their work.

Community engagement
The day’s activities also included a community engagement session in Yarakita Village, where Benn was joined by PS Ally, Deputy Commissioner Watts, Regional Commander Ramana, and Toshao Abigail Abrams. Residents raised issues related to public safety and infrastructure and the team pledged to continue working collaboratively with the community to address their needs.