Dear Editor,
In light of recent confrontations involving police and civilians, the question many Guyanese are asking is whether a civilian should be allowed to video record for their own safety.
Only on Wednesday, a video surfaced of two females in a confrontation with the police over a DUI matter. While the police were video recording the scene, the two females were continuously ordered to stop recording.
Similarly a few days ago, some GPL workers were in a confrontation with the police. The law enforcement officers were seen on video slamming one of the civilians to the parked vehicle. The officer could be heard saying “hello now is not time for video recording, put away your phone” in a public place.
Had it not been for these video recordings, one would not see what happens when these bad confrontations occur.
Editor, a civilian should be allowed to peacefully video record any public confrontations with the police, public services, etc. Unless it’s a restricted area like immigration, customs, etc.
In most developed countries, video recordings are allowed for the safety of the civilians and law enforcement officers. The USA recently allowed passengers to video record TSA encounters while transiting through airports.
Yours faithfully,
R Alonzo
