GEORGETOWN (CMC):

Police here will boost their numbers on the streets of the capital as commercial activities increase ahead of the Christmas season.

From November 15, 2006 to January 15, 2007, the police force will deploy more officers in the main commercial areas and its environs in Georgetown, Assistant Commissioner Paul Slowe disclosed at the weekend.

Slowe said the aims of the operation, which has now crystallised into an annual anti-crime initiative, are to "control and reduce criminal activities, building police confidence and reducing traffic accidents and congestions (sic).

Special plans in place

"We know at this time of the year as we approach Christmas, a number of Guyanese, either residing locally or abroad, are going to descend on the city and therefore as a responsible law enforcement agency, we seek to put together special plans as we deal with this anticipated influx of persons," Slowe said.

The plan will involve additional foot patrols, booths at strategic locations around the city, increased raids and other special operations, more roadblocks and river patrols.