$16M police boat given to Public Works Ministry

By Kurt Campbell

[www.inewsguyana.com] – The Guyana Police Force recently handed over the $16 million fiber glass boat that was procured in 2010 for the Police Marine Section to the Ministry of Public Works.

This was confirmed on Monday October 14 by Public Works Minister Robeson Benn. Through his Public Relations Officer, Aneka Edwards, Benn said that the engine of the boat is currently being inspected after which a determination will be made on how it would be used.

iNews understands however that the boat is likely be handed over to the Maritime Administration (MARAD) to aid with its water patrols. The boat is currently docked at Customs Boat House, Georgetown.

The watercraft is said to be powered with four engines and had a cruising speed of 23 knots with the maximum speed being 38 knots. It also has a refrigerator, two burner stove, microwave, coffee maker, sinks, and bathroom among other comfort.

Efforts to contact Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell to ascertain why the Police Force was no longer using the boat proved futile. The then Commissioner Henry Greene had indicated that the boat would increase water patrols and slow down pirate attacks.