Public Security Ministry launches US$15M crime fighting project
Georgetown, GINA, January 25, 2016
The US$15M Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP), a project that will target the reduction of crimes and violence in Guyana was launched by the Ministry of Public Security in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) today. This project aims at bringing crime and violence to a minimum, and will be executed under the theme “Building Capacities, Strengthening Security”.
Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan at the launch at the Marriott Hotel, expressed his gratitude towards the IDB for its commitment towards aiding Guyana’s crime prevention efforts. He noted that the CSSP has come at an “opportune moment” that will certainly help bring a reduction to crime in Guyana.
With crime on the rise over the last decade, Minister Ramjattan recognises that it has become a major concern for everyone. He noted that there is a need for citizens to play their role in government’s crime fighting efforts.
“While it is obligatory for government to address problems related to public security, in an effort to safeguard their rights and wellbeing of their citizens, the emerging trend in successful crime prevention show that government-citizen partnerships are most effective in tackling crime and violence,” explained Minister Ramjattan.
One of the causes for the rapid rise in crimes over the years is linked to the fact that there is “low level of trust in law enforcement agencies,” Minister Ramjattan pointed out. However, he noted that it is improving.
A section of the gathering at the launch of the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme
He stated that gov’t will continue to work with Non-Governmental Organisations, community groups, international organisations and government ministries to help supplement the IDB-funded programme. He said the strength of combined efforts will tackle and help solve crime.
IDB Representative, Ms. Sophie Makonnen noted that the bank remains committed to providing financial and technical assistance to Guyana in the battle against crime.
Specific objectives of the programme are: to improve behaviours for non-violent conflict resolution in target communities, increase the Guyana Police Force’s effectiveness in crime prevention and crime investigation nationally, and improve the Guyana Prison Service’s effectiveness in reducing offenders’ recidivism at the national level.
The five-year Citizen Security Strengthening Programme will be implemented by the Ministry of Public Security Project Implementation Unit, and will be managed by the IDB through direct supervision.