The Guyana Police Force (GPF) recorded a significant reduction in serious crimes for the year 2024. The decrease is credited to strategic measures implemented by the government, particularly the SAFE Country initiative, according to Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn.
The establishment of command centres has been identified as a critical factor in crime prevention and detection. Four new command centres were established across Regions Three, Five, and Six, complementing the existing facility in Region Four.
These centres serve as the foundation of the SAFE Country initiative, which leverages closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enable faster interventions and improve crime detection rates.
The SAFE Country initiative is an integral component of the government’s broader strategy to enhance national security while fostering an environment conducive to foreign investment.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali also commended the GPF’s achievements in crime reduction and attributed the high clearance rates of major crimes to the government’s investment in advanced technology and modern equipment.
The statistical breakdown for serious crimes demonstrates the progress made. A comparative analysis of 2023 and 2024 shows: Murders decreased by 25.9%, from 158 in 2023 to 117 in 2024. Robberies dropped by 40.9%, from 22 to 13.
Robbery underarms (other instruments) saw a 36.6% decline, while robbery with violence fell by 12%.Break-and-enter and larceny cases decreased by 31.3%, from 463 to 318. In total, serious crimes dropped from 1,406 in 2023 to 1,235 in 2024, representing a 12.2% reduction.
The administration remains committed to continuing its investments in security measures to create a safe environment for all Guyanese, enhance investor confidence, and support overall development. The reduction in crime rates and the implementation of innovative strategies have bolstered public confidence in law enforcement and highlighted the government’s dedication to ensuring safety and security across the nation.
