The security sector in Guyana is set for a comprehensive transformation with Budget 2024, as over 90 billion dollars are allocated to modernize various aspects.
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn highlighted key areas of focus, emphasizing improvements in physical and transport infrastructure, training opportunities regionally and internationally, and the development of community policing groups.
For the Guyana Police Force, a substantial allocation of 30.3 billion dollars will contribute to the force’s transformation.
Minister Benn expressed enthusiasm about the funding, highlighting its potential to enhance infrastructure, transportation, and regional and international training opportunities for the police force.
He also welcomed the allocation of 152 million dollars dedicated to the development of community policing groups across the country.
Minister Benn underscored the importance of community policing groups in providing actionable intelligence on misconduct and addressing sovereignty concerns along the western border, particularly in interior areas related to Venezuela.
In addition to the police force, the prison service is poised for significant improvements, including infrastructure development, training for inmates and officers, and the centralization of prison services at Lusignan, moving away from Georgetown.
Plans include constructing a new prison headquarters at Lusignan equipped with advanced monitoring systems.
The Fire Service will also benefit from budgetary allocations to install new fire hydrants, service existing ones, and procure additional firefighting equipment.
Budget 2024 reflects the government’s commitment to comprehensive security sector reform, ensuring the country’s safety, and addressing key challenges in law enforcement and public safety.