SWAT Team to be in place by August 2014; Contract signed for consultancy services to set up unit

By Kurt Campbell

[www.inewsguyana.com] – A contract for the provision of consultancy services for the establishment of Guyana’s first Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit was signed between the Guyana Government and the Emergence Group (TEG) –tasked with designing and implementing the unit.

At the signing ceremony on Tuesday afternoon (October 15) which was held at the Ministry of Home Affairs Brickdam, Georgetown Subject Minister Clement Rohee noted his satisfaction with the finalization of the contractual arrangement, which has brought an end to months of negotiations with TEG.

Rohee made it clear that despite calls for his removal as Home Affairs Minister, he will take steps to address the crime situation in Guyana from all angles until time that he demits office.

Rohee while responding to a question from the media made known his confidence that the SWAT team will curb crime and reduce violence in society.

Meanwhile, Director of TEG Dennis Hays who is tasked with putting the unit together assured of the development of a true Guyanese approach to tackle crime.

He also boasted of the wealth of knowledge and experience he brings with him to get the job done. When asked how soon Guyanese can expect an established and functioning SWAT unit he told reporters “by next summer.”

Hays explained that there will be intense training and screening during the period but noted that the Government of Guyana has the final say in who makes up the unit.

The announcement of the institutionalizing of such a crime fighting unit was made on Wednesday, October 2 by the Ministry of Home Affairs following cabinet’s approval.

The Force is expected to be better positioned to make specialized interventions, thereby, ensuring law and order is maintained, and prospective threats are neutralized.

 

The establishment of a SWAT team has received the full support of the leadership of the Guyana Police Force. Commissioner of Police Leroy Brumell was present at today’s event.