Georgetown : The Ministry of Home Affairs today issued a strong statement expressing concern with regards to persistent incidents of robberies on business places owned by Chinese nationals many of whom are naturalised Guyanese.
The concerns raised with regards to this situation has been brought to the attention of the Commissioner of Police, with a view of having the police apply strong investigative and corrective measures to provide the Chinese community with an appropriate comfort level so that they can continue to carry on with their legitimate business in Guyana.
“Such action on the part of the Police must be part and parcel of its overall law enforcement posture for the entire business community, and by extension, the entire populace of Guyana,” the release stated.
Over the past months, there has been a pattern of incidents whereby, Chinese businesses are being targeted by criminal elements. In many cases the occurrences are reflected in petty robberies and in some cases robberies under arms. However, in the majority of cases, the Chinese nationals suffer physical injuries as a result of these criminal attacks.
The release stated that these attacks originated from and coincides with, a politically inspired and orchestrated campaign by known opposition elements.
According to the Ministry, this campaign is characterised by sustained and systematic efforts of vilification and criminalisation aimed primarily against the Chinese community.
“From all indications it appears as if the criminals have taken their cue from opposition elements who are behind the hostile campaign launched against Chinese nationals resident in our country,” the release stated.
The Home Affairs Ministry said it will continue to actively monitor the security environment of the Chinese community, as well as the wider business community in light of these attacks. Further, it remains committed to ensure that the necessary policy position of public safety and security is maintained.
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