By Samuel Gillis
The New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have formalized a partnership aimed at bolstering policing strategies and supporting the reorganization and transformation of the GPF.
This collaboration was cemented with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and marks a significant step towards enhancing law enforcement capabilities in Guyana.
The MoU signing follows President Irfaan Ali’s recent meeting with NYPD’s First Deputy Commissioner, Tania Kinsella, who has Guyanese roots.
During the ceremony, Deputy Commissioner Kinsella highlighted the NYPD’s efforts in reducing gun violence, expressing her intention to share these successful practices with the GPF to address similar challenges in Guyana.
U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, emphasized the support of the U.S. Embassy and the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) for the training partnership.
Ambassador Theriot described the initiative as a crucial tool to combat crime, violence, and illicit trafficking, which pose threats to Guyana’s stability and national security.
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn conveyed the government’s appreciation for the NYPD’s commitment to this partnership.
He underscored the importance of this collaboration in overcoming local law enforcement challenges and improving crime-fighting efforts.
To ensure the program is effectively tailored to Guyana’s needs, Deputy Commissioner Kinsella will meet with key government officials and civil society members during her visit.
A specialized curriculum for law enforcement training and community police responses will be developed in the coming months, aimed at fostering the adoption of best practices in policing.
This strategic partnership is expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of the GPF, promoting a safer and more secure environment in Guyana.