Gov’t to introduce ankle monitoring system as part of efforts to boost public safety- Minister Walrond
“We have a mandate as a government from the people to deliver to them a safe and secure country. People want to feel secure and have that standard of living where they’re able to walk down the street with their children and not have to worry.”
These were the words of Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, as she outlined several key measures aimed at strengthening national security and tackling domestic violence. Among the new initiatives is the introduction of an ankle monitoring system for offenders who breach restraining orders.
She explained that the system will allow authorities to track offenders in real time and send automated alerts if they approach restricted areas or come near a victim, a move aimed at ensuring quick response and preventing further acts of violence.
The Minister also noted that her priority in her new role is to ensure that citizens feel safe through the implementation of innovative security measures. She pointed to the Safe City Initiative, which uses facial recognition, vehicle tracking, and license plate technology to assist law enforcement in crime prevention and investigations.
Another key feature, she added, is an alert app that functions like a panic button, allowing individuals in danger to contact authorities and receive emergency assistance immediately.
While these systems are being strengthened, Minister Walrond said rebuilding public trust in the Guyana Police Force remains essential.
“People want to feel that there is a police force that I can trust and that cares and that will respond to me,” she said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs is also focusing on juvenile justice, with programmes to rehabilitate and reintegrate young offenders into society.
Minister Walrond stressed that addressing the root causes of crime, combined with stronger community support systems and modern technology, reflects the government’s commitment to keeping all Guyanese safe.
