On the eve of its 185th anniversary, the Guyana Police Force is reporting a historic drop in serious crime—an achievement Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken attributes to a mix of professional reform, community collaboration, and improved training standards.
Hicken delivered the update in the second episode of Safeguarding Our Nation, set to premiere on July 1. The episode features a sit-down interview with moderator Marcia Hope, where the Commissioner outlines what he describes as the Force’s most significant progress in a decade.
Between 2015 and 2025, serious crime reports in Guyana dropped by 88 percent. Robberies involving guns fell by the same margin, while burglaries and larceny declined by 93 percent. Murders were reduced by 63 percent over the same period. These statistics are visualized in an animated chart included in the episode, offering a clear picture of the downward trend.
“I joined the Force because I believed in protecting and serving the people of Guyana, and that mission hasn’t changed,” Hicken said. “Today, we’re building a Police Service that is modern, professional, and trusted by all Guyanese.”
The interview takes a frank tone. While the Commissioner highlighted progress, he also acknowledged that many citizens still feel unsafe. “We know crime isn’t just about numbers—it’s about how people feel,” he said. “We are working every day to earn that trust, and we invite the public to hold us accountable and be our partners in building a safer Guyana.”
Hicken credited the reduction in crime to new approaches within the Force, including updated training methods, greater internal discipline, and deeper engagement with communities across the country. He also said more must be done to connect with young people and address the root causes of violence and fear.
The release of the episode coincides with several anniversary events marking nearly two centuries of policing in Guyana. This year’s observances, however, are being framed not only as a look back, but as a moment to define the future direction of the institution.
“Trust is built over time,” Hicken said. “We’ve made progress, but we’re not finished. And we can’t do it alone.”
