Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn has publicly denounced the actions of Station Officer Clayton Pantlitz of the Guyana Fire Service after an alarming discovery on July 18, 2024. Officer Pantlitz was intercepted by police at Melanie, East Coast Demerara, where a routine search of his vehicle uncovered a significant quantity of illegal spirituous liquor.
The cache included 24 bottles of Hennessy, 24 Johnny Walker Black Labels, 10 Johnny Walker Gold Labels, 12 Fireballs, 48 Absolut, and 12 Cîroc, according to official reports from the Ministry. Following the discovery, Officer Pantlitz was promptly escorted to the Guyana Revenue Authority Bond to secure the confiscated alcohol before being taken to the Brickdam Police Station for processing.
In response to the incident, Minister Robeson Benn expressed serious discontent, describing Officer Pantlitz’s conduct as unacceptable and a discredit to the Guyana Fire Service. Minister Benn highlighted that such behavior directly violates Public Service Rules F02 and Offence No. 36 at Section G, as well as Guyana Fire Service Disciplinary Regulation 54, Paragraphs 42 and 44. These regulations explicitly prohibit actions that bring dishonor to the Fire Service, cause harm to public trust, and involve improper conduct.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct among its personnel and affiliated agencies. Minister Benn issued a stern reminder to all members of the disciplinary services under the Ministry’s purview, stressing the importance of adherence to their oath of office, standing orders, and organizational rules and regulations. He warned that any deviation from these standards will result in swift disciplinary action.
The incident has sparked concerns about maintaining public trust and confidence in government agencies, prompting renewed efforts by the Ministry to reinforce accountability and transparency. Minister Benn concluded by assuring the public that stringent measures will be taken to address any breaches of conduct within the Guyana Fire Service and other related agencies under his jurisdiction.
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