Sod turned for construction of US$28.1M Brickdam Police Station

Two years after a devastating fire left the Brickdam Police Station in ruins, the Government ceremoniously broke ground for the commencement of construction of a new building at a cost of US$28.1M.

This time around, the central Police station is poised to become a state-of-the-art facility, envisaged to stand tall with a total of 12 storeys adorned with a myriad of modern amenities and cutting-edge security features.

Bassoo Building and Civil Engineering Company has secured the contract for the reconstruction of the Police Station, heralding a new chapter in its architectural evolution.

The new building will not only serve as the headquarters for law enforcement but will also accommodate several Policing Departments, fostering a consolidated approach to public safety.

In a momentous signing ceremony attended by key dignitaries such as President of Guyana Dr. Irfaan Ali, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn, and Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken etc, President Ali articulated that the construction of this modern edifice aligns seamlessly with the Government’s overarching plan to fortify the country’s security architecture.

The Head of State emphasised that in order for the national security infrastructure to function in a holistic, comprehensive, and unified manner, it necessitates the seamless operation of every facet within the country’s security apparatus.

He noted that the security architecture is intricately linked to the security apparatus, constituting all facets of Guyana’s security structure working in an integrated and cohesive manner, adding that this vision highlights a dedication to fostering a harmonious collaboration among diverse elements of the security apparatus, ultimately contributing to the strengthening of a resilient and interlinked national security framework.

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, conveyed his sincere appreciation to President Ali for demonstrating a vested interest in providing the sector with a new building.

Reflecting on the unfortunate collapse of the previous structure due to poor management at a middle level, Minister Benn underscored the importance of learning from past mistakes and ensuring a more robust approach in the current endeavor.

In his address, the Minister advocated for rigorous interfacing with the engineers and builders involved in the project.

He stressed the significance of a collaborative effort, urging all stakeholders to work together harmoniously.

Minister Benn highlighted the crucial role of the Police Commissioner, emphasising that the Commissioner would closely monitor both the construction and subsequent management of the new facility.

Furthermore, Minister Benn underscored the imperative for collective efforts and engagement from everyone involved in the project.

Emphasising a spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation, he encouraged a united front to ensure the success and sustainability of the new building.

The Minister’s call for a holistic approach reflects a commitment to avoiding the pitfalls of the past and fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and effective communication within the sector.

In his address, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken emphasised the promising times ahead, affirming that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is committed to upholding its current standards with the provided infrastructure and tools.

He underscored the importance of a robust maintenance policy for the new state-of-the-art building, ensuring that maintenance is conducted at an engineering level. To achieve this, civilian technocrats will be enlisted, and adjustments will be made to employ engineers for effective maintenance practices.

The Commissioner highlighted the relocation of traditional departments to the new Brickdam building, emphasising its positive impact. This move is expected to alleviate the inconvenience of individuals traveling to headquarters for services, ultimately fostering a more conducive and efficient environment within the GPF.

In October 2021, the Brickdam Police station was destroyed by 26-year-old Clarence Greene- a robbery accused, who was in the Brickdam lock ups at the time.

In statements that were given to the police by Greene and other prisoners, it was disclosed that the fire was set with the use of a cigarette lighter, wire and sponge from a mattress in the lockups.

Two prisoners in their statements claimed that after the fire was started, they were taken out of the cell and escorted to the Sparendaam Police Station.

It was while in the cell at the Sparendaam Police Station that Greene told his fellow inmates that he was the one who set the fire and detailed how it all started.

Green was charged with arson after admitting to starting the fire.