Modern policing in focus at GPF Officers’ Conference
February 10 2025
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday opened its 2026 Annual Police Officers’ Conference with a renewed push toward technology-driven, intelligence-led policing aimed at tackling emerging crime threats and strengthening public trust.
Held under the theme “Modern policing for a modern nation. Integrating technology, innovation and leadership to strengthen public safety and trust,” the conference centres on modernising law enforcement operations to better respond to increasingly complex and cross-border criminal activity.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken warned that transnational crime remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Guyana, as criminal networks become more organised, technologically advanced and interconnected across borders.
Commissioner Hicken emphasised the need for stronger intelligence-sharing systems, enhanced technological capacity and deeper regional cooperation to combat criminal organisations that move people, money and illicit goods across countries.
He noted that modern policing must evolve rapidly to counter threats such as financial crimes, domestic violence, road safety risks and the spread of misinformation.
The commissioner also pointed to the importance of innovation, data-driven policing and specialised training in detecting and disrupting sophisticated criminal operations.
The Police Commissioner further highlighted how increased migration into Guyana adds complexity to law enforcement, particularly in areas such as identity verification and protecting vulnerable groups from exploitation by international criminal networks.
He also underscored that the “erosion of public trust” remains a serious concern, calling for greater accountability in this area.
Despite these challenges, Hicken underscored that effective modern policing must remain grounded in professionalism, accountability and public confidence.
