SENIOR Pastor of the First Assembly of God Church, Reverend Raphael Massiah last Friday charged ranks of the Guyana Police Force to divorce themselves from activities and persons that could bring the Force into disrepute and attract a bad press.The pastor was at the time delivering the keynote address at the Guyana Police Force 176th Anniversary Church Service at ‘A’ Division Headquarters, Brickdam.

“I challenge you to be a terror to those who do evil – this should be your mode. People who do good must never fear you, never fear the Guyana Police Force (but) people who do evil must watch over their shoulders – guess why – because you are coming and if you are a professional there will never be a connection between you and evil,” Massiah stated.
The Minister of the Gospel reminded the members of the Force that they are forever being graded by members of the public and too often the police have been getting failing grades in the process.
“Shut those down who are bringing negative press and use your investigative skills to find those people, you know who are the rogue people, flush them out because ultimately they are bringing the bad image to the Force,” Massiah advised.
He said further that police ranks will be better able to execute their duties if the senior ranks look out for those under their care and ensure that they are taken care of adequately.

Meanwhile, the senior pastor lauded the police on their record in fostering positive community relations over the last two years, and reminded that good relationships come with compassion. He also noted the power they have as men and women of the Guyana Police Force but cautioned them against using that power on the wrong set of people.
“Explore the avenues to be meek and use your explosive power in a controlled manner rather than using it raw – you do not have to prove that you have power, the world knows that you have power”.
Ranks were also advised to ensure that they get their house in order since no success on the job can compensate for failure at home.

By Leroy Smith