In a decisive shift aimed at safeguarding vulnerable citizens, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has announced the immediate elimination of the controversial 24-hour waiting period for acting on reports of missing children and persons. The move, confirmed by Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, comes in the wake of national outrage following the tragic death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, whose disappearance and subsequent death highlighted critical gaps in the previous response protocols.

Effective immediately, police officers across all divisions, stations, and outposts are required to act on missing person reports as soon as they are received. The new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) mandates that every report is treated with the utmost urgency, seriousness, and professionalism, particularly when it involves children, the elderly, or vulnerable individuals.

A key feature of the revised protocol is the introduction of an automatic “Red Alert” system for missing children. This mechanism triggers a coordinated national response, mobilizing resources and agencies-including the Child Care and Protection Agency, Immigration Department, healthcare providers, and shelters-to ensure a comprehensive and rapid search effort. High-risk cases, such as those involving minors or persons with disabilities, will now prompt the immediate deployment of additional police resources.

The Corporate Communications Unit (CCU) has been tasked with providing timely and accurate updates to the public about missing persons, while senior officers and divisional commanders must maintain daily oversight of all active cases until they are resolved. The GPF has also warned that officers who fail to comply with the new SOP without lawful justification will face disciplinary action.

Commissioner Hicken emphasized that these reforms are part of a renewed commitment to restoring public trust and protecting the most vulnerable members of society. “The GPF takes its responsibility to protect life and ensure public safety with the utmost seriousness. The implementation of this SOP underscores our renewed commitment to act swiftly, lawfully, and compassionately when a person is reported missing,” he stated.

The changes, though prompted by recent tragedy, are intended to prevent future incidents and ensure that every missing person’s case receives immediate and decisive action. Authorities hope this new approach will set a national standard for responsiveness and compassion in handling such critical cases.