The Home Affairs Minister has called for the formation of more Community Policing Groups (CPGs), while acknowledging that there is a shortage of police officers, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Minister Clement Rohee has also expressed optimism that there will be positive results in relation to crime over the next five years with the input of CPGs.

He said it is likely that crime will dramatically drop in the coming years as CPGs continue to play their role. Over the years, the government has demonstrated support for CPGs to boost their capabilities through several interventions. This, Rohee, said will be a positive contribution to the success of the groups, GINA stated.

Currently there are 187 established voluntary CPGs, which receive support from the government in the form of vehicles and boats. In July this year a $3.6 million vehicle was handed over to the members of the ‘A’ Division Community Policing Group.