Patrol vehicles to carry English, Spanish markings – Police
A Police vehicle with the Spanish marking
As part of its strategic and inclusive approach to enhance service delivery, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will now feature both English and Spanish writing on its patrol vehicles.
This initiative aims to provide a more comprehensive and efficient professional Police service to all Guyanese, including the growing number of Spanish-speaking foreign nationals. The Police vehicles will display “Police” in English, accompanied by the GPF logo, and “Policia” (Spanish for Police) will be positioned below the English text.
According to the Police Force, the decision aligns with the Force’s forward-thinking Strategic Plan (2022 to 2026), which emphasises inclusivity and building partnerships as the GPF evolves into a modern law enforcement organisation.
Additionally, the GPF’s Academy is currently offering language courses, including Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin, to its personnel.
Just recently, Government officials highlighted that this decision aims to cater to the significant number of people in the country who speak Spanish.
The move is also part of an ongoing trial as the Force explores ways to accommodate Spanish-speaking individuals, particularly those who have migrated from neighbouring Venezuela. The Police have indicated that they are working on ideas with respect to it.
Despite the initiative, some members of the public and the political arena have raised concerns, questioning why English is not used exclusively. However, the Government’s goal is to create a more inclusive environment that caters to the diverse linguistic needs of its citizens and residents.
President Dr Irfaan Ali had previously emphasised Guyana’s commitment to adopting Spanish as a second language. Efforts are already underway to incorporate Spanish into the country’s education system.
During the launch of the Security Specific Language Programme last year, Deputy Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus announced a new policy within the GPF, requiring prospective and current members to become proficient in a second language.
Likewise, during the recent swearing-in ceremony for the latest cohort of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) recruits, President Ali mandated that these ranks must acquire proficiency in Spanish within their first year of service, among other requirements.
