Tuesday, May 9, 2006

by Ivan Cairo
Caribbean Net News Suriname Correspondent
Email: ivan@caribbeannetnews.com

PARAMARIBO, Suriname: The Suriname Police Force (KPS) has improved its ability to fight crime by launching a criminal records database.

The computerized system, which was established with financial assistance from the United States of America, will be specifically used to fight trans-national and organized crime, according to Surinamese justice minister Chandrikapersad Santokhi and US ambassador Marsha Barnes.

“With the inauguration of this system, the KPS moves from the era of paper files and ink fingerprint cards to state of the art computerized records. The database’s software was designed specifically to meet the needs of the KPS. It will enable personnel to verify, at the touch of a button, information on criminals to include photos and their fingerprints,” said the US diplomat at the inauguration ceremony last Wednesday.

Police Commissioner Delano Braam discussed how improved technology is necessary for forensic investigations focused on drug and human traffickers.

Minister Santokhi added that the Criminal Records Database will enhance security activities of the CARICOM.

According to the minister, Suriname is now a step ahead of other CARICOM nations by implementing security measures in the region selected to host the Cricket World Championships.

By January 1, 2007, a region-wide information network shared among security forces will detect and track suspected individuals at all points of entry with the CARICOM.

“Although Suriname is not participating, we have to play our part to ensure the region is safe during the Cricket World Cup Tournament,” said the Minister of Justice.

During the inauguration ceremony, the KPS also received two 18-foot speedboats from the US.

“The boats will give the police a capability they currently lack for quick reaction and then swift pursuit on Suriname’s many rivers and creeks. For too long, narcotics traffickers have been able to move on the waterways with impunity. I hope that the boats will contribute to the KPS’ ability to pursue them and arrest them,” said Ambassador Barnes.

Minister Santokhi agreed that the Narcotics Squad and other special police units were unable to act swiftly in the past due to logistics problems. “On various occasions there were cocaine drops and we couldn’t move in on time to arrest the criminals, but starting today the situation will change.”

Over the last several years Suriname and the US have been working closely to improve the capability of the police organisation. This assistance has included computers and scanners and handheld radios, training, and the creation of new training rooms at the police academy.

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