The association of private security organisations today issued a statement expressing sadness at the killing of security guard Wilfred Stewart by bandits yesterday at Sterling Products Limited. The association called on the police to take swift action.
The full statement follows:
The Guyana Association of Private Security Organizations (GAPSO) is deeply saddened by the senseless and cowardly killing of Security Officer Wilfred Stewart, yesterday 8th December 2014 while on duty. Officer Stewart was a 10 year veteran Security Officer of the Beharry Group of Companies Security Division, attach to the Sterling Products Ltd. The Private Security Industry has been thrown into a state of sorrow as a result of this horribly tragic incident.
Security Officers provides a difficult, dangerous, and often thankless work of safeguarding and protecting. As we mourn Officer Stewart, let us also remember it is a dangerous job that people take for granted. Fortunately, this incident does not happen that often, but it can happen. Nevertheless, with unflinching commitment, Security Officers protect our schools and businesses; and kept us safe as we go about our lives. To Officer Stewart family, we owe an unplayable debt. And to the men and women who carry his mission forward, we owe our unyielding support.
Just as Security Officers are trained to never let down their guard, we must never let slide our thanks. We should extend our thanks not only in times of tragedy, but for every tragedy averted – every accident avoided because of the actions of Security Officers. In other words, we must show our gratitude every day to Security Officers because of the job they have chosen to do.
GAPSO urges the Police Investigators to now obtain satisfactory answers to the questions surrounding the facts and circumstances of this incident. It is essential that Investigators take swift action, providing answers and assuring the perpetrators is brought to justice. This will help ensure a similar act is not committed against another Security Officers.
GAPSO will continue to providing all necessary resources so that Security Officers can get the job done, while investing in training to prepare those on the front lines for potentially deadly situations.
At this time Guyana Association of Private Security Organizations member’s thoughts and hearts are with Officer Stewart’s wife, two children and his family and friends. Our prayer is that God will encourage them in this difficult time.
