On-the-spot decisions by Top Cop brings solution to issues plaguing Lethem

…integration of school dropouts discussed

Scores of residents of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) attended a meeting at Lethem on Friday afternoon to meet with the Acting Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, and to discuss issues affecting their community.
During this interaction, the residents highlighted some of the issues plaguing their community, most of which were addressed instantaneously, with the Top Cop making on-the-spot decisions and providing possible solutions based on the community’s specific needs.

The interactive session was held at the Tabatinga Sports Complex in Lethem and saw the Guyana Police Force coming in for high praise from the community. The meeting with the Commissioner and team commenced with prayers from the three main religious groups.
Mayor of Lethem, John Macedo noted that the Top Cop’s visit was very timely and much appreciated. He further stated that the Commissioner’s visit would not be confined to the town but the region as a whole.

The Mayor pointed to the fact that Lethem is growing and developing and, as such, issues would arise. Along that line, the Mayor further indicated that he is pleased with how the Guyana Police Force executes its duties.
In his remarks, Regional Chairman Bryan Allicock said it is important that the Guyana Police Force and the community maintain a good relationship which will help to build trust and foster cohesion.
“The military and the Police are the eyes and ears of the community,” the Chairman is quoted as saying by the GPF’s communications unit.
Council General for Guyana to Brazil, Rodger King, who also attended the meeting, stated that “Police are our friend and as such we must continue to work together”. King also lauded the Top Cop for working assiduously to change the dynamics of the general public interacting with the Police.
The Top Cop, while addressing the residents, said that partnerships are adding to the Guyana Police Force’s strategic plan to bridge the gap between the Police Force and citizens by strengthening strong Police-community ties.
To further highlight the strengthening of Police-community relations, the Top Cop referred to the official launching of the GPF Community Relations Department in June 2022. That department is tasked with building and fostering a professional and collaborative partnership through positive engagement and public trust between the Police and the community; and promoting safe communities by reducing the fear of crime, especially in vulnerable communities and among vulnerable groups.
Integrating school dropouts into society was a topic Commissioner Hicken covered in great detail. He also urged community members to foster an environment to help young people thrive.

Commissioner Hicken applauded the CPG groups in the region for their dedication and hard work. When it comes to performance and accountability, the Guyana Police Force must maintain discipline while projecting diversity and gender equality.
In closing, the Top Cop echoed, “I want you to work with the Police, not against the Police.”
Also present at the meeting were Commander of Regional Division Number Nine, Senior Superintendent Raphael Rose; Deputy Commander M Ally; Region Nine Town Clerk, Keisha Vincent, representatives from the Guyana Defence Force and Guyana Fire Service, members of the RCCI and CPG, and other senior and junior Police officers.