Region 6 honours Top Cops as Commander reports major crime, traffic reductions

Police ranks in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) were on Friday recognised for exemplary service during a regional Police awards ceremony, as Regional Commander Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus reported significant reductions in serious crime and road fatalities across the division. The region’s Top Cop award was presented to Assistant Superintendent Johann Henry, the Regional Detective Officer, whose investigative leadership has contributed to improved case clear-up rates. Henry was also recently named runner-up for Top Cop nationally, an achievement earned just days before the regional ceremony. The runner-up award for Region Six was presented to Corporal Keisha Griffith, who was commended for her dedication, discipline and consistent service to the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

Addressing ranks and invited guests, Bacchus described the ceremony as an opportunity for reflection and gratitude, noting that the Christmas season is not only one of celebration but also introspection, noting that the occasion allowed the force to evaluate its performance and begin projecting plans for the year ahead. Bacchus reported that policing efforts in the division have resulted in an impressive 113 per cent crime clear-up rate, alongside a 56 per cent reduction in serious crimes for 2025 when compared with the January to November period in 2024.
He described the achievement as significant and credited ranks at every level for working professionally to keep communities safe. Traffic enforcement also showed notable improvement, with the commander stating that traffic incidents declined by 18 per cent, while fatalities on the region’s roadways decreased by 25 per cent when compared with the corresponding period last year. “These numbers are very significant,” Bacchus said, stressing that the results reflect strategic planning, leadership and sustained operational work throughout the year. He explained that Region Six currently has 11 Police stations and five outposts, with another outpost scheduled to be established at Siparuta, while feasibility studies have been completed for four additional locations.

He also revealed that three cold cases were successfully solved through strengthened investigative techniques led by the Regional Detective Department. Bacchus further outlined ongoing and upcoming infrastructure developments, including the Sisters and Orealla Police Stations, both approximately 65 per cent completed; the New Amsterdam and Orealla boathouses; a command centre at Whim; and upgrades to the Regional Police Headquarters. “These facilities are constructed so that we can execute our mandate in a more professional and comfortable manner,” he said, urging ranks to take responsibility for maintaining the buildings. Bacchus also highlighted opportunities for Police ranks to pursue academic qualifications, referencing the GPF Digital School, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Scholarship Programme, and free tuition at the University of Guyana (UG), noting that the organisation now bears the financial burden for officers’ education. Looking ahead, Bacchus noted that major infrastructure projects planned for Region Six, including road expansion and construction works, will bring new policing challenges. He emphasised the importance of community partnership, stating that crime prevention and road safety remain a shared responsibility between Police and citizens.
He concluded by thanking ranks for their service, extending well wishes to their families, and expressing confidence that with continued teamwork, the division will achieve even greater results in 2026.