THE Guyana Police Force (GPF), yesterday, rewarded 1,659 of its ranks for their commitment and hard work in crime-fighting. At the function in the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary, Georgetown, the recipients were from all the divisions and they received monetary awards, as well as trophies, plaques and commendations, for their sterling contributions.
The Best Cop is Sergeant Headley of ‘E&F’ Division, who received $250,000; a trip for one to Kaieteur Falls; a trip for two to Arrowpoint Nature Resort and a dinner for two.
In the Vote of Thanks, he credited his work to God, his family and those who supported him, admitting that he was pleased to be honoured as it is indeed a privilege.
The runner-up Best Cop, Cadet Officer Dass, of  the Tactical Services Unit (TSU), Eve Leary, was gifted $200,000.
The Sportsman Award, of $100,000 and a trophy, was presented to Corporal Randolph Morgan and the Sportswoman Award went to Sergeant Alder, who got $100,000 and a trophy.
The Male Sports Personality Award was won by Sergeant Wilson, who received $50,000 and the Female Sports Personality, Sergeant Phillips got $50,000 and a trophy.
The ‘A’ Division Best Cop, Corporal Boyce, who made 742 traffic cases for this year, was presented with $150,000; ‘B’ Division Best Cop, Detective Lance Corporal Caesar received $150,000 for his efforts in some high-profile cases; ‘C’ Division Best Cop, Constable Martin, got $150,000 as well, for solving several serious crimes; ‘D’ Division Best Cop, Constable Alleyne, who was instrumental in solving several narcotics cases, received $150,000; the ‘E&F’ Division Best Cop, Sergeant Headley, who managed to solve 11 murders among other crimes, received $150,000, too, and ‘G’ Division Best Cop, Constable Ramnarine, another $150,000, for solving 235 cases.
The Best Cop for  Eve Leary headquarters, Detective Bagot from the Narcotics Branch, who solved a number of cases was also given $150,000.

IMPORTANCE
Speaking at the ceremony, Acting Police Commissioner  Leroy Brumell underscored the importance of being professional while on and off duty to enhance the image of the Force.
He said they have seen it fit to reward ranks for their hard work, those who went beyond the call of duty to make the GPF better.
Brumell also thanked stakeholders, including the private sector and the Community Policing Groups (CPGs) for assisting the GPF in crime-fighting.
He said, although, in his view, crime has been suppressed somewhat, at the same time, there is need to look at some areas, especially murders, 128 of which were recorded this year, three more than for the corresponding period in 2011.
Brumell admitted that the statistics are worrying for the Force, because, under examination, most of those killings stemmed from minor matters which could have been resolved amicably.
He also advised persons who cannot ‘hold their liquors’ against drinking and admonished those who engage in domestic violence under the influence to desist from hitting women.
“Do not commit yourself but be cautious of your surroundings. It is not nice  for a police officer to be charged and placed before the courts for such offences,” Brumell observed.
He urged ranks to set an example by behaving professionally at all times and to extend courtesies to members of the public, as they(police officers) are regarded as servants of the Guyanese people.
Brumell also encouraged ranks to desist from speaking to members of the public in an impolite manner.