COMMISSIONER of Police, Clifton Hicken, joined by members of his Executive Leadership Team (ELT), met with more than 500 police officers on Friday at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary. The gathering focused on the future direction of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as it prepares for 2025.
The ELT included Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram (Administration), Errol Watts (Operations), Wendell Blanhum (Law Enforcement), Fazil Karimbaksh (Special Organised Crime Unit), and Simon McBean (Commander of Region 4’A’). Together, they outlined a comprehensive agenda aimed at enhancing the Force’s efficiency, professionalism, and public engagement.

Commissioner Hicken emphasised the need for continued development across various aspects of the GPF, including: Human Resource Development: Expanding academic and police-related training programmes; Infrastructural Upgrades: Improving physical facilities to better serve officers and the public; Technological Advancements: Enhancing crime fighting, traffic management, and public service delivery; and Community Engagement: Strengthening relationships with communities to foster trust and co-operation.
Addressing the officers, Commissioner Hicken highlighted the importance of professionalism, discipline, and integrity. He underscored the role of police officers as ambassadors of the Force, urging them to create an atmosphere of mutual respect and collaboration within their communities.

“We’re doing well, but we can do more,” Hicken stated. “This is the first time in the history of the Guyana Police Force that we can walk into any community, any region, and interact with members of the public. This initiative must and will be maintained.”
The Commissioner also touched on critical issues of conduct, punctuality, and appearance, reminding officers that they are constantly under public scrutiny. He warned that breaches in these areas would be met with strict action.
On the topic of promotions, Hicken assured ranks that the much-anticipated list would be released soon, though he acknowledged that not all officers could be promoted simultaneously.

Despite challenges, Hicken expressed optimism about the GPF’s trajectory, stating, “This Guyana Police Force will continue to progress until we become the best [Police Force] in the Caribbean.”
Members of the ELT also delivered messages emphasising unity, teamwork, and professionalism. They urged ranks to remain honest, disciplined, and committed to the Force’s mandate to serve and protect.
The meeting marked a pivotal moment in the Force’s ongoing transformation, with leadership reaffirming their dedication to building a modern, efficient, and community-oriented police service.