Vandals strike National Park; PAC turns to Police to catch culprits

One month after security CCTV footage was installed at the National Park, Georgetown, by the Protected Areas Commission (PAC), the commission on Tuesday said that there has been a deliberate act of vandalism within the park.
According to the PAC, through their 24-hour CCTV surveillance and routine ground inspections, several incidents have been recorded and identified, including the deliberate defacing of park signage, the uprooting and destruction of plants surrounding the Children’s Monument, and general damage to public infrastructure.

The PAC is urging members of the public to remember that the National Park is a sanctuary for fitness, family, and nature and that these acts of destruction not only deplete resources meant for maintenance and improvement but also disrespect the thousands of Guyanese who utilise the space daily.
In this regard, the PAC has footage of these incidents and is working closely with the Guyana Police Force and other agencies to identify those responsible.
The Commission is urging all visitors to treat the park with respect. “If you witness any suspicious activity or deliberate damage to park property, please report it immediately to the security personnel on-site or by telephone at 604-1088, 694-6653, 699-3990, or 666-5677,” the Commission stated in a release.
Meanwhile, the Board of Directors, through the management of the National Park, is working to restore the vandalised areas. Members of the public are also urged to help monitor and keep the urban parks clean and maintained for all Guyanese.
Just one month ago, this publication reported that the PAC announced 24-hour active CCTV surveillance was now fully operational across the entire park. The upgraded security network provides high-definition monitoring of key locations, including the outdoor gyms, children’s play park, Manatee Pond, and Woofington Park for Pets, as well as all main parking lots and pedestrian walkways.
The initiative was intended to deter unsanctioned activities and provide peace of mind for families, fitness enthusiasts, and pet owners. While the PAC continues to monitor the grounds, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to on-site security personnel immediately.
The Commission also reminded visitors last month that it is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of personal property.