The various branches of the Guyana Police Force on Saturday morning brought out their best to participate in the annual route march which formed part of that organisation’s 179th anniversary celebrations.
The early morning activity saw ranks from the seven divisions and various branches of the Force proudly displaying their respective uniforms as they participated in the march. The Tactical Services Unit (TSU), Presidential Guards, Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Traffic and Immigration; together with ranks from Force Headquarters, Felix Austin Training College, Mounted Branch, Canine Section, Scouts, Rural and Community Policing Groups, as well as divisional youth groups, were all impressively represented in the activity.
The parade commenced at the TSU Drill Square at Eve Leary at 06:00h, and proceeded through the streets of Georgetown, passing by the Public Security Ministry for Minister Khemraj Ramjattan to take the salute, before returning to the Police Headquarters Compound for the announcement of the winners.
Addressing the ranks at the TSU Drill Square, acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine noted that all the participants are winners, as he outlined that this year’s “route march” has seen the largest turnout ever, with over one thousand participants.
He also reminded the ranks of the importance of the Police Force. “The Guyana Police Force is probably the most important institution in this country; and so, with your discipline this morning, with your show this morning, with your commitment this morning, all Guyanese and those from afar who are here (at) this point in time should fell justifiably proud that there are men and women in uniform who will give of their best every day; who will make that special sacrifice,” the acting Top Cop posited.
Ramnarine charged ranks to maintain their integrity as they persevere in serving and protecting the state and its citizens.
The winners of awards were presented with trophies and cash prizes.
In the category of best-dressed civilian (female), the CID secured the top prize with a total of 281 points, while the Guyana Association of Women Police came in second place with 266 points.
The ‘E’ Division Scouts gained 272 points, while Headquarters Scouts gained 276 points, copping the top spot. The Neighbourhood Policing Group of ‘D’ Division scored 225 points, while ‘C’ Division Policing Group scored 225 points. The ‘B’ Division Policing Group emerged winner of that category with a total of 263 points.
The Immigration females won in the uniform category with a score of 289 points, while the Headquarters females came in second place with 280 points. The TSU #2 copped first place for males in the same category with 286 points.
The title of best dressed male unit was shared by the TSU #1 and the Presidential Guards, both of which scored a total of 292 points. The prize for the best overall unit was shared between the TSU and Presidential Guards, which both received individual group trophy as well as individual group cash prizes.
Additionally, prizes were awarded to the oldest and youngest participants of this year’s route march, as well as to the Military and Steel Bands, both of which received cash prizes for their outstanding performance.
Saturday’s route march was the second activity of the Force’s month-long anniversary celebrations.
