– Crime Chief urges creativity and vigilance

SIXTY-THREE new investigators graduated from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Induction Course 1/2026 on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the Officers’ Training Centre, marking a key step in strengthening Guyana’s investigative capacity.
The programme, chaired by Cadet Officer Adosfi Felix and coordinated by Inspector M. Thuknauth, concluded with a ceremony at 13:00 hrs, where certificates were awarded and outstanding performers recognised.
Delivering the feature address, Crime Chief and Deputy Commissioner of Police, Wendell Blanhum, congratulated the graduates, highlighting the rigour and dedication required to complete the course.
“Think creatively, think outside the box, and sometimes remove the box,” Deputy Commissioner Blanhum urged, emphasising the importance of innovation and critical thinking in modern detective work.
He noted that many graduates had endured sleepless nights during training, but their commitment had paid off.
The course, designed to develop investigative skills, oriented participants to their roles as detectives and equipped them with knowledge to handle criminal investigations, analyse crime scenes, and respond effectively to incidents.
Participants included members of the Guyana Police Force, as well as representatives from external agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit.
Deputy Commissioner Blanhum stressed the importance of collaboration with external agencies, noting that investigators play a crucial role in protecting life and property, maintaining law and order, and preventing crime.
He encouraged the graduates to remain focused, sharpen analytical and observational skills, and maintain resilience in the face of challenges.
The top performers of the course were: First Place: Sergeant Leroy Carrol (Guyana Police Force); Second Place: Investigator Shanice Williams (Guyana Revenue Authority); Third Place: Constable Naresh Ragnauth (Guyana Police Force).
A special prize was also introduced this year for the best-performing student from an external agency.
The graduation was attended by senior officers including Head of the Narcotics Branch, Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredericks and other officers of the Guyana Police Force, highlighting the significance of the programme in building a skilled and effective investigative workforce.
Looking ahead, Deputy Commissioner Blanhum noted that while 120 officers applied for the course, only a select number could be accommodated. Those not selected will have another opportunity when the next CID Induction Course is scheduled for September 2026.