Minister calls for better treatment of citizens at police stations

Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, has called for a transformative approach in the way police officers interact with the public, emphasising the need for a more compassionate and respectful treatment of persons, who visit police stations to make reports.
In a recent address to ranks, Benn underscored the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere within the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
“We want the investments that we are making, the buildings, the infrastructure, the equipment, and all assets, that are commensurate with the progress that we are making. I want to entreat you all today to keep focus on integrity, to keep focus on the questions of improvement both on the personal level, and at the level between yourself and squaddies, and under your command and also for yourself. This is what we need now, more than ever,” he said.
Benn highlighted a significant shift in the role of the GPF, noting that it is no longer perceived as an institution of oppression.
“The Guyana Police Force is no longer the militia in the old days which was used to attack the people. The Guyana Police Force represents our people. You are our police, “Benn said.
This call to action comes amid efforts to improve public trust and cooperation with the police. Benn stressed that the treatment of vulnerable groups, such as women and children, is paramount in fostering a positive relationship between the police and the community.
The minister’s appeal also follows several reports on social media from individuals claiming they were ill-treated by police officers when they visited police stations to make reports.
These accounts have sparked public outcry and have highlighted the need for immediate reform in the conduct of police personnel.
“You (police ranks) are peacemakers, you are peacekeepers. In our culture today, our multi-culture, multi-ethnic society, in the villages and the communities; how we approach and speak to each other. How we treat women and children, how we treat people who come to the police stations. The Police stations should be a welcoming place for people,” he said. (G9)