NEWLY appointed Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, on Saturday embarked on his first major community outreach since he assumed the top post in the Guyana Police Force.

Hicken visited several communities in and around Georgetown including Rosemary Lane in Tiger Bay, Leopold Street, Sophia, Albouystown and Agricola where he distributed food hampers and kites to the residents.
At every location the reception was overwhelming and enthusiastic, with residents turning out in their numbers to meet the new Commissioner of Police (ag) and to interact with him.

Hicken was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ (ag), Calvin Brutus; Commander Regional Police Division 4’A’, Simon McBean; other senior and junior officers of the Police Force and businessman, Shahab Hack.

During the interaction with the residents from each community, Hicken emphasised the need for unity and partnership between the police and communities.

The commissioner further mentioned that there must be no conflict between the police and residents of the communities and he wishes to see the equal amount of respect given to other members of the Force and members of the business community whenever they go into communities to conduct business.

Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ (ag), Calvin Brutus, while addressing the residents, notified them that the Guyana Police Force will be launching a Skills Training Programme for youths and young adults within the communities so as to help them better sustain their livelihood.

Commander of the division, Simon McBean, assured the residents that his administrative team will make frequent visits to each community since the safety and security of the residents are of utmost importance.
Businessman Shahab Hack pledged a total of $1.5M for scholarships and sport development in the communities visited.

This message was well received by the residents who openly pledged their support to the new commissioner and his team.

Before leaving, Hicken assured the residents of each community that there will be weekly meetings to address their concerns and issues and thanked them for their support over the years.