Former Police Officer Calls for Shorter Detention Limit, Warns of Abuse

By Mark DaCosta- A former officer of the Guyana Police Force, now a political analyst, has called for a reduction in the 72-hour period police are allowed to hold a suspect before a court appearance, describing the limit as dangerously excessive and warning that it creates opportunities for arbitrary abuse.

Speaking to this publication, the former officer argued that the period, intended to safeguard the administration of justice, can instead become a tool for overreach, particularly amid public concerns about the independence of what critics describe as a politicised police force. He urged Parliament to shorten the detention period and strengthen safeguards against unlawful or unnecessary detention.

Although few citizens may be familiar with the constitutional provision governing detention before a court appearance, he said it is a fundamental protection that deserves greater public attention.