THE relationship between the police and the communities must be reciprocal, Magistrate Crystal Lambert said, pointing out that both parties need each other to function effectively.

Communities rely on police and prosecutors to protect them from crimes and injustices, while the police in turn rely on communities for support and cooperation in their investigations.

Speaking at a recent breakfast hosted by ‘F’ Division (Bartica, Lethem and other Interior locations) at the Bartica Recreational Centre, Region Seven, Lambert was quick to point out that her remarks were of an observant civilian and not in the capacity as a magistrate.

She opined that the police should operate in the principle of peace officers and as such she encouraged them to build trust with communities since it can be an essential step for successful prosecution.

She pointed out that at times public perception of the police hampers many cases from being properly prosecuted. “It is very important that you mold that trust with your communities because it goes a far way,” the magistrate said.
“It is very important that police officers know their role and that is to keep the fabric of society together, to maintain law and order and to always have stability… where you matter is in the eyes of the public, they need you, and when they turn away from you, we have chaos and we have confusion, she added.”

The magistrate also encouraged the ranks to put their best foot forward while being respectful and discipline in the execution of their duties.

Commander Ravindradat Budhram said the division covers a large portion on the map of Guyana and although there are challenges in resources and manpower, it has been able to make notable strides.

According to him, there has been an increase in ranks and the division also benefitted from ATVs, boats and pickups that were donated by the People’s Republic of China.

The commander also said that each station within the division now has more ranks to serve their respective districts and that more ranks received enhanced training in their respective field.

This year, the division also launched a literacy programme in Byderabo where over 800 books in mathematics, english, science and educational topics were given to youths, Commander Budram added.

In Bartica, a summer programme was held and over 300 persons were tutored in craft-making, educational and developmental skills.

Touching on professionalism within the division, the commander said it has improved. “I’ve seen a great increase in professionalism within the division, comparing to the reports I received last year. Recently, in Bartica, we placed police before the court because they moved away from the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs),” the commander said.
He added that under his command, prompt action will be taken against misdemeanour so that all have due respect for the law. The system is working and there has been a lot of matter being cleared up in court, including backlogs,” he said.

The breakfast was all part of the activities to celebrate the Christmas Season within the division. Among those in attendance were Region Seven Chairman, Gordon Bradford, ranks and special invitees.
Detective Sergeant Juan Henry was awarded the Best Cop prize for the division while several other ranks were awarded for their performance in 2017.