IN a New Year address, Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, reaffirmed the Guyana Police Force’s dedication to community engagement and outlined its commitment to building public trust in the coming year. Commissioner Hicken emphasised the force’s role in molding the youth and playing influential roles in communities across Guyana through various outreach programmes.

Reflecting on the past year, Commissioner Hicken acknowledged the challenges faced by the force, including the tragic losses of Woman Constable Annette Able, Detective Corporal Dwayne McPherson, and five servicemen on December 6, 2023. Despite these setbacks, he commended the force for remaining firm, focused, and professional in the face of internal and external threats.

Commissioner Hicken highlighted the positive aspects of 2023, noting a significant 20 per cent decrease in ‘serious’ crimes and the removal of 147 firearms, compared to 110 in the previous year. The Guyana Police Force Academy achieved accreditation status in August 2023, with a redesigned training curriculum that includes professional development for all ranks, digitised entrance examinations, and a learner driver programme.

In terms of international collaboration, 25 members of the Executive Leadership Team, Regional Commanders, and Heads of Departments completed a Train the Trainers Programme, and three senior officers studied Academic Best Practices at the Police Academy in Idaho, USA. Numerous scholarships and sponsorships were offered to ranks for studies in Russia, China, Jamaica, Barbados, Miami Flight School, and the University of Guyana.

During the festive season, the Guyana Police Force ensured public safety by deploying adequate manpower to patrol streets and communities across the country.

Commissioner Hicken expressed gratitude to corporate partners, the donor community, private security companies, and Community Policing Groups for their support in 2023, urging them to maintain their commitment to professionalism, trust, and integrity in 2024.

Looking ahead to the new year, Commissioner Hicken expressed optimism about the Guyana Police Force’s potential for transformational growth. He emphasised the importance of professionalism within the force and acknowledged the significant efforts made over the past year to serve and protect the public in a professional manner.

Commissioner Hicken concluded his address by urging the public to recognise the exceptional work of police ranks and emphasising that, through strategic partnerships, meticulous planning, and sound policies, the Guyana Police Force aims to achieve its goal of creating a safer and more secure Guyana in 2024.