At a press conference held by the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) today, party members called for an investigation into the Guyana Police Force (GPF), following recent charges against Assistant Commissioner of Police (ASP), Calvin Brutus for alleged financial crimes.
Brutus had over $500 million frozen across eight bank accounts linked to his family and their businesses.
Today, PNC/R member, Ganesh Mahipaul, criticized the GPF’s leadership, stating, “Most of those in the leadership of the GPF are unfit to be members, much less leaders. The evidence is emerging that like the PPP the GPF is corrupt, unprofessional and complicit in crime and corruption and therefore cannot morally or properly execute its mandate to ensure law and order and reduce crime in Guyana.”
Mahipaul labeled the top brass of the force, including Acting Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, as “unfit” and said that a reputable international body should conduct the investigation into the GPF.
Adding to this, PNC/R Leader Aubrey Norton, who also spoke at the press conference, suggested that Brutus’ case likely involved junior and senior government ministers, and even top ranks in the GPF.
Commenting on Hicken’s appointment to the substantive position, Norton said, “I have said in a letter to the president that what needs to be done is for there to be a thorough investigation into the police before any talk about confirmation of anybody in the Guyana Police Force, because you cannot confirm people whose character are questionable…”
Mahipaul also expressed disappointment with Hicken’s silence following recent Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) and Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) presence at Brutus’ residence, before he was officially charged.
He added that Hicken’s silence speaks volumes, given that Brutus was his second in command.
“You know, his silence in all that is unfolding right now… is deafening. I am finding it difficult as a citizen of this country to even think of supporting his confirmation, on the mere fact that he remains silent on all that is happening,” Mahipaul said.
