Region 3 Recorded 6.4% Drop in Serious Crimes

The Regional Police Division Three (3) has recorded a notable 6.4% reduction in serious crimes for 2024, a testament to ongoing efforts to improve safety and security in the region.

This announcement was made by Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Siwnarine during a meeting with senior leadership of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

The meeting, held at the Division’s headquarters in Leonora, West Coast Demerara, was part of Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken’s initiative to engage with officers and outline the Force’s vision for 2025.

The event brought together key figures, including Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram (Administration), Wendell Blanhum (Law Enforcement), and Simon McBean.During his remarks, Commissioner Hicken praised the officers and ranks of Region 3 for their unwavering dedication, emphasizing that the crime reduction is a direct result of their hard work.

He encouraged the continuation of community-oriented policing, highlighting its importance in addressing the root causes of crime.“Community work is where real policing happens,” Hicken stated.

“The guns, the drugs, and the problems are in the communities—not in the police stations. Get out there and do your jobs.” The Commissioner also issued a stern warning about corruption, stressing a zero-tolerance policy for unethical behaviour within the Force. “I will not support wrongdoing,” he declared. “Do the right thing, and you’ll be recognized and promoted. But if you choose corruption, there will be consequences.”

The meeting also served as an opportunity to reinforce the pillars of the GPF’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, which focuses on strengthening infrastructure, enhancing human resources, and building partnerships to boost operational efficiency.

Deputy Commissioners Budhram, Blanhum, and McBean echoed the Commissioner’s sentiments, urging officers to maintain professionalism, integrity, and discipline. They stressed the importance of mental and physical health, continuous learning, and teamwork in the execution of their duties.“Balancing personal development with policing is crucial,” one Deputy Commissioner noted. “Discipline and a commitment to service are key to growth, both as officers and individuals.”

As the meeting concluded, the leadership team reiterated their commitment to fostering a unified and effective police force, with a shared goal of maintaining safety and building trust within the communities they serve.

The reduction in serious crimes is seen as a significant step forward for Region 3 and a reflection of the GPF’s dedication to making Guyana a safer place for all.