… Warn against the spread of incorrect information
Social media platforms started buzzing with a series of reports of missing persons in the past two weeks, urging the public to draw conclusions about suspected hijackings.
But Guyana Police invalidated these allegations on Friday, citing no recent report of kidnapping.
“Guyana Police have taken note of a Facebook post expressing concern over the number of recent reports of missing persons in the country, especially teenagers… Police are again reassuring citizens that this is far from over that it was a reality and that there had been no report of any recent kidnapping received by the Police, ”a statement issued by the Police noted.
The Police went on to say that while the public’s concerns are valid, the assertion that “this issue does not appear to be fully addressed by the Guyana Police Force” is incorrect.
Going forward, assurances were given of increased efforts to publicize these events when such reports were made. The Police added that over the years, it had aggressively dealt with missing persons reports in respect of its follow-up and subsequent investigations; including that all Police stations in the country are quickly informed with relevant information.
There is a Missing Person Unit at the Department of Criminal Investigation (CID) Headquarters, which has the specific responsibility of taking the lead role in investigating such cases.
“Guyana Police already has a system, which is published from time to time, to receive information and suggestions on any police related matter from members of the public, in confidence, via telephone numbers and its Facebook page. ”
People have been warned to refrain from spreading misinformation about such topics as it can increase social tension. In a social media post, which highlighted the attempted kidnapping of two women, it was later proved that this was a false report.
“While the call for neighbors and others to look out for each other is appreciated, pedaling this wrong information about alleged kidnapping can lead to unwanted tension, anxiety and stress in society. Guyana Police reiterates that it has received and has been dealing professionally with recent reports of missing persons, but none of kidnapping, ”the missive added. (G12)
