The Guyana Police Force is reporting that it has seized a total of 96 weapons for the year so far.

Of that number, 42 were pistols, 28 were revolvers, 24 were shotguns and 2 were rifles.

The statement did not indicate where the various weapons were seized or under what circumstances.

However, the Police Force also reported that during the month of November, there was a 6% decrease in robbery under arms where firearms were used and a 17% decrease in armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used.

The Police Force is also reporting a 16% decrease in serious crimes when compared to the corresponding period last year.

The Force has constantly been criticized by members of the Public and the Opposition over its serious crime reduction figures. While it continues to report a decrease in crime when compared to the previous year, many citizens have expressed worry over the almost daily report of robberies.

Just this past weekend, a Berbice cambio dealer was held up by 14 armed bandits who carted off a large quantity of cash and jewellery.

Former Home Affairs Minister under the PPP government, Clement Rohee has asked that a comprehensive study be done on the crime situation in Guyana and the figures.

 The same Police Force provided its statistics while Rohee served in government.

For its part, the Government of Guyana appears to be saying that perception is not always reality.

The Public Security Ministry has been touting more arrests of suspected criminals and increased case solving and charges being filed.

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