Guyana’s National Assembly unanimously passed a bill (see related story) amending the Criminal Law Offences Act that adds a fine of up to 750,000 Guyanese dollars for the use of masks in committing certain crimes. Those involved also face the possibility of a three-year jail term.
Keep in mind that this is on top of whatever sentence for the act itself. The amendment applies to larceny, house break-in, riots, unlawful assembly, acts of terrorism, burglary, robbery and assault.
Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall contended that, “concealing one’s identity emboldens offenders while reducing the risks of being identified or apprehended.” In this regard, he noted that the legislation seeks to enhance public order and aid law enforcement in apprehending suspects.
However, one can’t help but wonder to what degree this will prove an effective deterrent. After all, delinquents using masks in an attempt to remain unidentified are unlikely to give that up for avoiding the risk of more punishment should they get caught.
Still, the move does indicate that every possible avenue is being explored to assist authorities in combatting crime and increasingly brazen perpetrators. In particular the proliferation of firearms is a major concern across the region that threatens people’s safety and – certainly in the case of a tourism economy – their livelihoods as well.
So, while methods and strategies chosen may sometimes seem a bit unorthodox and raise an eyebrow or two, the ultimate goal of more secure communities is what’s important. In trying to achieve such, indeed no stone must be left unturned.
