The Guyana Police Force had its capacity boosted on Wednesday with the addition of some 93 new ranks.
Police Commissioner Leslie James inspecting the ranks at the passing out parade on Wednesday
The new all-male recruits passed out from three courses following nine months of training, which commenced last April at the Felix Austin College in Georgetown. During that time, they were exposed to the basic and essential principles of police practices and procedures with focus on five core areas: introduction to policing; basic police records and recording; theoretical aspects of traffic; foot and arms drill, and introduction to crime.
Addressing the gathering at the passing out parade, Police Commissioner Leslie James told the new recruits that they were embarking on an exciting but equally serious career and as such, they should not forget to apply the best practices learnt during the training in the execution of their duties.
“This job prepares you for the challenges which lie ahead in our communities. It is not easy and it is not a job for anyone. Being a police officer requires a lot of things… [but] you must display exemplary conduct,” James charged.
Further, the Top Cop told the new recruits that once they carry out their duties diligently, then being in the Police Force can be a rewarding career that will not be measured in monetary value but with the feeling of fulfilment and pride.
Officer’s family and friends at the passing out parade
“I urge that you quell your anxieties. Be patient, be confident [and] be assertive in the execution of your duties. An assertive policeman or policewoman would not necessarily command the respect and attention that you are deserving… Remember your goals and aspirations. Keep going with values of self-discipline, skillset and most of all, courage and integrity,” the Commissioner encouraged.
Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner of Police and the Force’s Training Officer, Clifton Hicken told the new recruits that as they go out there to perform their duties, they will be a reflection of the Guyana Police Force and as such, they should uphold and further enhance the image of the country’s premier law enforcement agency.
During Wednesday’s passing out parade, several of the ranks from each batch were awarded for their overall performance and discipline exhibited during the training period.
From Course No 370: Constable 24898 Gonsalves was awarded Best Student, while the runner-up Best Student was Constable 24893 Fresco and most improved student was Constable 24886 Conway.
From Course No 371: Constable 24929 Mussenden was awarded Best Student, while the runner-up Best Student was Constable 24911 Johnson and most improved student was Constable 24909 Jeffery.
From Course No 372: Constable 24949 Singh was awarded Best Student, while the runner-up Best Student was Constable 24941 Rawlins and most improved student was Constable 24963 Yearwood.
They all received trophies. The passing out ceremony ended with an entertaining drill display by the new recruits.
