GPF’s 185th Anniversary: Over 5,000 cops receive $112M in prizes at Annual Awards Ceremony

…as GPF records reduction in crime, traffic accidents

At the Guyana Police Force’s 185th Anniversary Awards Ceremony held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, Georgetown, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken reported substantial reductions in crime and traffic accidents so far for 2024.
The event, which celebrated the achievements of the Force, saw over 5,000 ranks awarded with monetary compensations amounting to $112 million.
During the ceremony, Police Commissioner, Clifton Hicken highlighted an 18.9% reduction in serious crime for this year while emphasising the success of 361 community policing groups across regional divisions.
Additionally, he noted that the force has confiscated 75 firearms, the same number as in 2023.

In the realm of traffic safety, the Commissioner reported notable decreases in various types of accidents. Fatal accidents dropped from 68 in 2023 to 50 in 2024, marking a 26% reduction.
Deaths resulting from these accidents decreased from 78 in 2023 to 60 in 2024, a reduction of 23%. Serious accidents fell from 176 in 2023 to 158 in 2024, a 10% decrease, while minor accidents declined from 223 in 2023 to 211 in 2024, showing a 5% reduction. The number of damage accidents also saw a decrease from 420 in 2023 to 398 in 2024.
Commissioner Hicken acknowledged the “daily challenges” faced by ranks “in maintaining law and order” and commended the officers for “exceeding standards” and “expectations.”
“Ranks, we understand the daily challenges you face in maintaining law and order. Being a police officer is among the most demanding roles… the responsibilities and professionalism of a police officer, sets the profession apart”, he said.
“Your efforts have not gone unnoticed as we remain steadfast in fulfilling the mandate of the Guyana Police Force”.
He also highlighted the Force’s heavy investment in its ranks, mentioning that more than 1,000 scholarships and various sponsorships had been provided, with several hundred ranks participating in local and overseas courses and programs.
The government is pouring billions of dollars into bolstering the police force’s capabilities, integrating cutting-edge technology, and enhancing training programs. This year alone, approximately $1 billion has been allocated for expanding the force’s land and water fleets, which will significantly improve mobility and response times.
A further $2 billion is dedicated to advancing technology and crime-fighting initiatives, while $5.4 billion is earmarked for infrastructural development.
Moreover, $250 million has been set aside to increase training across various sectors, and $152 million is allocated for community policing initiatives.
In his closing remarks, the Commissioner urged the public to foster a supportive environment where officers can thrive.
The event also featured the presentation of over 100 special awards and tokens of appreciation to various departments, including the Police Regional Divisions (one through ten), Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters, GPF Command Centre, Guyana Police Association, Communications Branch/Information Technology Department, and the Strategic Implementation Unit for Police Reform.
Special recognition was given to the Special Constabulary Office of the Director of Music and Culture, Quartermaster Store, Guyana Police Consumers, and Co-operative Society Lt. General Officer, among others.
Addressing the audience, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn stressed the importance of delivering outstanding service and maintaining integrity. He also encouraged officers to focus on personal growth.
“I want to entreat you all today to keep focus on integrity, to keep focus on the questions of improvement. This is what we need now more than ever… We must not take our eyes off of that ball,” Minister Benn said.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting the Guyana Police Force in reducing crime and violence across the nation. (G9)