By Mark DaCosta- In a troubling development for the Guyana Police Force (GPF), a sergeant has been placed under close arrest following allegations of discharging a firearm in public on December 26, 2025. This incident occurs within a wider context of increasing scrutiny over police conduct in our nation, especially regarding firearm misuse. Recent statistics reveal a pattern of alarming incidents involving firearm abuse by ranks within the GPF, highlighting significant internal accountability issues that must be addressed.
The sergeant, identified as a driver for a senior regional commander, was arrested on December 27 after investigators received credible information about the incident. Reportedly occurring in Number 78 Village, the specifics surrounding the event remain somewhat unclear. However, the police statement affirms that relevant samples were collected as part of an ongoing investigation into the discharge of a loaded firearm. This incident illustrates a growing culture of misuse and abuse of power within law enforcement, contributing to a negative public perception of the police.
This latest case is not isolated; 2025 has seen numerous disturbing instances involving police ranks and the improper use of firearms. A notable example was the case of Constable Areyon Grannum, who was apprehended in July while on sick leave. He was found with an unlicensed .32 calibre Taurus pistol and ammunition concealed within his vehicle during a routine search following a tip-off. Grannum’s claim that the weapon was for “personal protection” did little to mitigate the severity of the charges he faced, reflecting a broader trend of firearms getting into the hands of officers ill-equipped to handle their responsibility.
Moreover, an even more shocking incident involved Constable Daniel Henry, who, in November, was seen on social media videos brandishing an AK-47 while under the influence of alcohol. Witnesses reported that he fired indiscriminately into the street, threatening bystanders. This reckless display resulted in his immediate arrest and formal charges of possession of a firearm with intent to harm — a charge carrying severe legal consequences. Such incidents raise critical questions about the checks and balances in place to ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions.
In addition to individual cases, official statistics paint a troubling picture of firearm-related offences within the GPF. In total, 20 ranks have been charged and placed before the courts for various serious crimes throughout the year 2025. Among these charges, crimes such as robbery under arms and unlicensed possession of a firearm illustrate systemic issues within the force. Notably, two police ranks were charged with robbery under arms, indicating a troubling trend of officers betraying their duty by employing their weapons in illicit activities.
The wider implications of these incidents extend beyond individual misconduct; they signal a systemic failure within our policing agencies. The Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, has highlighted concerns about firearms that should belong to public security agencies finding their way into criminal hands, aggravating an already tenuous public safety situation. This year alone has seen the seizure of some 100 illegal firearms by the GPF, a clear indication of the pervasive issues that need urgent addressing.
As we approach the end of 2025 and look towards the future, it is imperative that the Guyanese public remains vigilant and demands accountability from those entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining law and order. While the recent arrests signify some attempt at internal reform, a notable anti-government sentiment indicates that we, the citizens cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the corruptive practices that undermine our safety and trust.
As this latest shooting incident unfolds and the facts emerge, they serve as a stark reminder: the legacy of mismanagement and misconduct within our police force must be confronted with urgency and unwavering resolve.
