COMMISSIONER of Police, Clifton Hicken, alongside members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), met with Senior Superintendent Ewart Wray and the officers and ranks of Regional Police Division 4’C’ at the Division’s Cove and John Headquarters, on Tuesday.
The meeting focused on reinforcing professional standards and expectations as the Guyana Police Force (GPF) prepares for 2025, amidst the country’s ongoing infrastructural and economic transformation and the upcoming general elections.

In his address, Commissioner Hicken emphasised punctuality, appearance, and professionalism as non-negotiable standards for police conduct. He declared, “We’re not making ‘joke’ this year,” signalling a no-tolerance approach to lapses in discipline. He urged strict adherence to dress codes and warned

against misconduct, stating, “No policeman or woman must be improperly dressed coming to work,” and, “No police after now must come in front of me with corruption allegations. You will be dealt with.”

The Commissioner reiterated the importance of using body cameras during traffic stops, a directive aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability. “Traffic ranks must desist from stopping vehicles and asking to see documents without their body cameras on,” he stated.

Commissioner Hicken highlighted the GPF’s transformation into a more effective organisation, emphasising its mandate of service and protection. “This is the first time in the history of the Guyana Police Force that we can walk into any community and interact with members of the public and be respected,” he said, attributing this progress to the Force’s strengthened community engagement efforts.
He encouraged all ranks, from constables to senior officers, to actively participate in fostering partnerships between the police and communities. “Go into the communities and play your part,” he urged, reinforcing the importance of meaningful police-public interactions in enhancing trust and collaboration.

During his address, Commissioner Hicken touched on the GPF’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, which focuses on infrastructure, personnel development, partnerships, and operational efficiency. He commended the progress achieved under Senior Superintendent Wray’s leadership in Division 4’C’ but cautioned that much work remains. “You’re doing well, but you have ten times more to do,” he said.

Members of the ELT, including Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram (Administration), Errol Watts (Operations), Wendell Blanhum (Law Enforcement), and Simon McBean (Commander 4’A’), also addressed the ranks. They emphasised unity and teamwork, urging officers to take advantage of opportunities for personal and professional development.

The meeting marks a proactive step in enhancing the effectiveness and integrity of the GPF as the nation approaches a pivotal electoral period. With a focus on accountability, community engagement, and professional standards, Commissioner Hicken aims to position the GPF as a premier law enforcement agency, not just in Guyana but across the region.

As the Force prepares to navigate the challenges of 2025, its leadership remains committed to upholding the principles of service, protection, and public trust.