During a meeting with several private security firms on Tuesday, Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, called on private security companies to be mindful of the posture of their ranks at locations where they are working.
While noting that the expansion of the private security service is assisting in creating a safer Guyana, Minister Benn raised some worry about the improper use of firearms and the posture by some security officers with those weapons.
“We do not want what is seemingly a militarized country, and I want us to be reminded of the risk and the danger the improper use of a firearm represents; we do not want a posture that is aggressive and intimidating”, the minister was alluding to the instances where security firms would have their ranks on duty exposing large arms, adding “that creates a hostile situation with civil society and can have negative implications for Guyana’s tourism, as well as the general safety of citizens.”
The meeting was held to identify issues and concerns as the Guyana Police Force looks to foster collaboration with private security firms.
The Minister also warned that ranks of private security companies could face sanctions.
“I believe that many of you who are running security services are professionals in the area. I believe that many of you have the knowledge and expertise with respect to training, behavior and culture with respect to the use of firearms; I want you all to impart that knowledge to the persons you have under your employ, the duty and responsibility resides with you to ensure that you run your services professionally and to make sure that the persons you employ do so in a professional manner so as to mitigate risks.
The event was organized by Deputy Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login