…as new road networks pose challenges for EBD law enforcement
The expansion of road networks along the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) is presenting significant challenges for law enforcement, with criminals exploiting these connections to evade capture.
Deputy Superintendent Wayne DeHeart, Deputy Commander of Regional Division 4B (EBD), highlighted the issue on a recent police radio programme, “Police and You”, as one of the most pressing concerns facing his team.
“The challenge that we’re having is the fact that, because of the network of roads, persons are able to easily commit a crime and then speed off, get out,” DeHeart explained.
He noted that motorcycles are often the preferred means of escape, saying, “The modus of getting to a crime scene and then leaving a crime scene usually is the motorcycle.”
DeHeart emphasised the critical role of community cooperation in addressing these challenges.
“I would want to encourage persons, if they have any information that can help in either the stopping of a crime or the successful investigation of a crime, to reach out to us,” he said.
Deputy Superintendent Wayne DeHeart, Deputy Commander of Regional Division 4B
He assured residents that the police are committed to protecting the identity of informants.
“We rely heavily on ensuring that persons’ identities are protected so that when we do get success, people can’t point fingers,” he said.
Regional Division 4B spans from Agricola to Moblissa, just before Region Ten (Upper Demerara- Upper Berbice).
The division includes vital infrastructure such as the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), the Demerara Harbour Bridge, and the National Stadium, which require constant and vigilant policing.
“It’s a very large division with a lot of responsibility,” DeHeart said.
“Persons going to Linden and coming from there would have to pass through here. It’s a lot to focus on.”
The area also includes significant economic activities such as sand pits and quarries, further adding to the workload of law enforcement officers in the region.
DeHeart however, credited the community for its role in the police force’s successes.
“We can’t achieve the success we’ve had without the relationship with the community,” he noted.
While acknowledging that the police often face criticism, he stressed the importance of listening and learning from feedback.
“Not everything that you see or presume is negative. Sometimes somebody may say something not in the best light, but there is a message there that you can take away from it.”
DeHeart also discussed the generational changes impacting law enforcement, noting that younger people have different ways of interacting and thinking.
“Youths have a different way of speech, interaction, and thinking,” he stated.
He urged officers to adapt to these differences and take the time to listen to the younger generation’s perspective, to foster better cooperation.
Sharing a personal story, DeHeart recounted how a recent interaction with two fishermen highlighted the importance of building trust with the community.
“It was an inspirational moment for me,” he said, reflecting on how even small gestures like stopping for a conversation can improve public perception of the police.
He encouraged officers to engage with children as well.
“If you see young children waving, stop, wave back and sometimes give a high five. Those simple actions can make a big difference,” he suggested.
DeHeart remains optimistic about overcoming the challenges posed by new networks and other issues on the East Bank however.
He believes that with stronger community partnerships and continued adaptability, the police force can ensure safety and security in the region.
He urged residents to support the police in their efforts to create a safer environment for all.
“We need the community, and the community needs us,” he concluded.
