The Guyana Police Force today urged members of the public to desist from offering bribes to its officers, reminding that offering a bribe to a Police officer is a criminal offence and a serious act that undermines the rule of law, accountability, and the integrity of law enforcement.
The Guyana Police Force said it has noted with concern an increasing number of incidents where individuals have been attempting to influence Police officers through bribes and ‘tokens of appreciation’ in order to evade lawful procedures.
The Force said such actions not only compromise the values of justice and fairness but also contribute significantly to the erosion of public trust in law enforcement institutions.
The Force said it remains committed to upholding professionalism, transparency, and zero tolerance for corruption, and has established internal mechanisms to identify, investigate, and deal decisively with any officer found engaging in corrupt practices.
At the same time, it noted, members of the public must play their part in the fight against corruption by refusing to offer bribes under any circumstances.
Members of the public are reminded that both the giver and receiver of a bribe are culpable under the law and will face the full consequences of their actions.
Citizens are being encouraged to report instances of bribery or attempted bribery to the Commissioner of Police Secretariat via the hotline numbers: 227-1611 ext 4001, 225-6411, 225-2700, and 600-3019).
The move by the Police Force comes on the heels of an investigation that was launched after an outgoing passenger at the Cheddi Jagan Airport filed a complaint about Police officers demanding money to release items that were lawful.
Today, the Police Commissioner visited both the Cheddi Jagan and the Eugene F. Correia Airport, where he interacted with Immigration Officers and other Police ranks.
The Force has made a decision for all Police Officers stationed at the airports, including Immigration Officers to now be outfitted with body cameras.
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