Region 9 Commander dies suddenly en route to Lethem

– Tributes pour in from police commissioner, DPP Chambers, colleagues

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is in mourning following the sudden death of Assistant Commissioner of Police and Commander of Regional Division Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), Raphael Rose, who died suddenly on Thursday night.
Commander Rose was said to be returning to Lethem after official duties in Georgetown when he reportedly began experiencing chest pains. According to Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, Rose was in transit through Kurupukari when he complained about the discomfort.

“The driver sought to speed up to reach medical assistance, but this was not to be,” Hicken shared in a heartfelt statement. “Commander Raphael Rose is not just an Assistant Commissioner of Police, but he is like a brother to me… His death is a painful one to us at this time, as he will surely be missed by all in the GPF.”
Rose, who took over command of Region 9 in 2021, was also preparing to proceed on pre-retirement leave. He was known for his efficiency, leadership, and devotion to the communities he served.
The Guyana Police Force officially confirmed his passing, noting his longstanding commitment to public service and his impact on crime reduction and community trust in the region.
“Commander Rose was widely respected for his dedicated service and strong leadership,” the Force said in a statement. “His untimely death comes just as he was preparing for retirement.”
From the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chambers came a similarly emotional tribute as DPP Shalimar Ali-Hack and her staff extended condolences, calling his passing “a real shocker.” They highlighted his close relationship with the DPP’s Outreach Program in Region 9, stating:
“He always avails himself, his vehicles, and police ranks to accompany us wherever in Region 9 we go. He was most respectful to Madam DPP and all of us who interacted with him, sometimes on a daily basis… We shall always be grateful for his thoughtfulness and assistance to us.”
Assistant Superintendent Seon Leitch, who served as Officer in Charge of Traffic for Region 9 under Rose’s command, was visibly shaken in his tribute. “With tears in my eyes, a heavy heart, and profound sadness, it hurts me to say RIP to a remarkable leader, a dedicated officer, and a dear colleague,” he said. “He was not just an officer; he was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding force.”
Leitch described witnessing Rose’s final moments, calling it a stark reminder of life’s fragility. He recalled Rose’s high standards, leadership, and the motivation he provided to those around him: “His leadership inspired me to be a better leader, to serve with honour… Sir, I will not forget that letter you gave me that made me pull my socks up.”
Sources within the police force described the late Commander as a dedicated officer who was loved and respected by all ranks.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the official cause of death.