POLICE Commissioner Seelall Persaud has commended ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken for his leadership of the division over the past year.Speaking at a luncheon for senior and junior ranks of “A” Division on Friday, Commissioner Seelall Persaud noted that serious crime in that division decreased by 20 per cent.

More than 50 per cent of crime reported annually occurs in ‘A’ Division, and because of that, it gets the most resources from the Force.

“Crime is a social problem, and a law enforcement solution could not work comprehensively to treat the crime…. It is for that reason that we started a number of partnership programmes to gain public trust. We need our partners within the communities (who) can assist us in dealing with the crime,” the Commissioner said.

Commander Hicken was also commended for establishing the Impact Albouystown and the Cops and Faith Network, which enhanced relations between the police and community members.

The Divisional Commander praised his ranks for their hard work and dedication, as well as the partnership between the public and private sectors.

Twelve ranks were presented with the Laparkan Policeman of the Month Award, which represents a tangible appreciation of their work throughout the year. The involvement of the Laparkan Group of Companies in the exercise dates back to 2000, and was the brainchild of the then ‘A’ Division Commander, George Vyphuis.

Detective Sargent Hurbert Henry was named Divisional Best Cop for solving a number of cases. He was also awarded the Roraima Airways’ trip for two to the Kaieteur Falls. Constable 22279 Trotz, a traffic officer, copped the runner-up spot and reeived a bicycle from National Hardware and a 32’ flat screen television from Courts.

More than 60 other officers were also awarded with hampers and trophies. The kitchen staff were also honoured at the luncheon.