Assistant Superintendent Jamine Bacon, who serves as the Division’s crime officer, is the best cop for Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). The announcement was made on Wednesday at a ceremony in New Amsterdam.
Senior Superintendent Calvin Brutus handing over the Best Cop award to Assistant Superintendent Jamine Bacon
Bacon, who has been instrumental in the Division recording a four per cent reduction in serious crime for the year when compared with last year, is said to be committed and dedicated to his duty and being a leader in his capacity.
During the past year, he mobilised many teams within the Region, braving the threats and risks, and conducted several operations within the Region. The Assistant Superintendent also supported operations in other Regions which led to the dismantling of a number of criminal gangs. He has also been instrumental in the arrest and prosecution of several criminals.
In four anti-narcotics operations headed by Bacon, some 210,000 cannabis plants with an estimated street value in excess of $80 million were destroyed.
The number two best cop is Detective Corporal Calwin Austin, who was not present to receive his award. He was also very instrumental in crime-fighting in the region.
Divisional Commander, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan noted that serious crime was reduced while there was also a decrease in fatal accidents in the region.
Meanwhile, acting Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie, in noting the challenges faced by ranks in realising a four per cent reduction in serious crime and a 48 per cent decrease in road facilities, encouraged the ranks to continue their outstanding work in enforcing law and order.
He said despite the continued challenges the Guyana Police Force (GPF) would continue to ensure it maintained its mandate of ensuring public safety and security.
“During this year, the Force has managed to maintain an effective patrol strategy and investigative capability which has resulted in a positive reduction of crime, which, as of December 27 this year, was reduced by 21 per cent when compared with the same period last year,” Hoppie said.
That achievement, he added, is significant, noting that it is the highest percentage decrease achieved over the past 10 years.
The traffic department countrywide also came in for high praise as fatal accidents declined by 32 per cent, with 125 accidents for this year compared with 285 for the same period last year.
Meanwhile, 12 ranks were promoted on the spot to Lance Corporal, Corporal and Sergeant.
Hoppie urged all ranks to be courteous and professional in their dealings with members of the public, “to improve our public image and motivate public support which is a prerequisite for good policing”.
Meanwhile, Commander Ramlakhan also commissioned a new recreational facility in the compound of Central Police Station.
He pointed out that there were many mental health issues affecting society and Police Officers as a group were no exception.
“I have decided to create and enable facilities such as a gym, a canteen and a community area that will promote health and well-being. Creating a practical wellness programme that meets the needs of enforcement agents is a social responsibility and critical for their performance as productive members of society,” the Commander pointed out.
He also noted that Police ranks work unpredictable hours which could result in mental fatigue and as such, any form of intervention would be appreciated.
“I am formally commissioning this facility with the hope that it offers added benefits to the lives and well-being of all ranks that work at this Station and its environs,” the Commander said. (G4)
