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11TH JULY 2006
MEDIA RELEASE
Meetong with the Commissioner of Police

The Private Sector Commission met with the Commissioner of Police on Wednesday 8th March, 2006 to further express its concerns and discuss the police response to the blockade and murder at Eccles and Agricola on the East Bank roadway.

The Commissioner explained to the PSC that the Police were first notified of the incident at 10:15pm and police ranks were mobilised and arrived at Eccles at about 10:30pm. He explained that the police were initially unaware of the nature of the attack and treated it as an attempted robbery at The Two Brothers Gas Station. Ranks from the Tactical Services Unit, Brickdam and Ruimveldt had assembled at the Ruimveldt Station for a briefing before proceeding to the scene.

The Commissioner pointed out that given the nature of the attack by over 15 men with heavy assault weapon, a military response with over 30 men with heavy fire power was necessary. The GDF was not summoned because of a lack of proper information. He indicated that an arrangement for rapid backup by the GDF is in place.

The PSC emphasised to the Commissioner the need for a reliable and efficient 911 system through which the public can communicate with the police with confidence. The Commissioner informed the PSC that the number of dedicated 911 lines are being increased and calls would soon be recorded and the system closely monitored. Other police emergency numbers were given as follows:

The PSC also expressed its concern that it appears that a dedicated and highly trained rapid response team from the Police was not in place and given the existence of heavily armed gangs, this is absolutely necessary. The Commissioner explained that a number of difficulties were experienced in organising this and earlier attempts were abandoned. However, a new team is being put together.

The PSC emphasised to the Commissioner that the widespread fear and concern in the business community and the general population must be urgently and properly addressed. The PSC pledged its ongoing support and assistance of the business community to the Police Force and insisted that the Force must be held accountable for the safety and security of all citizens.

In a recent meeting with President Jagdeo, the PSC strongly suggested to the President that he be directly involved with the Commissioner of Police and the Chief of Staff of the GDF in monitoring and responding to the deteriorating crime situation in the country.