Top Cop urges East Bank police officers to maintain integrity, professionalism

In a determined effort to ensure the Guyana Police Force (GPF) operates with professionalism and integrity in 2025, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken and his Executive Leadership Team (ELT) met with officers and ranks of Regional Division 4(B), East Bank Demerara (EBD) on Monday.

The meeting, held at the Police Officers Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, Georgetown was part of a series of planned engagements aimed at addressing challenges, fostering unity, and setting the tone for effective policing across Guyana.
Commissioner Hicken used the opportunity to stress the importance of crime prevention and maintaining the integrity of the Force, reminding ranks to adhere to Standing Orders and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
The Commissioner highlighted that the meeting aligns with the Force’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, which emphasises: improving infrastructure, operations, personnel development, and strengthening community partnerships. These initiatives, he explained, are crucial for building trust and ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens.
The meeting came on the heels of an earlier session with officers and ranks of Regional Division 4(A) (Georgetown) that same morning, where the Commissioner issued a stern warning to traffic and patrol ranks to stop targeting road users without body cameras.
The same warning was reiterated to the ranks of Division 4(B). This proactive approach was not limited to directives from the top. The meeting allowed ranks to share challenges hampering their policing efforts in Division 4(B). Commissioner Hicken and his leadership team immediately addressed the issues raised, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the ranks and ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to perform their duties effectively.
Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram (Administration), Errol Watts (Operations), and Wendell Blanhum (Law Enforcement) echoed the Commissioner’s sentiments, encouraging ranks to work collaboratively and remain professional at all times.
Commissioner Hicken closed the meeting by reiterating the need for better police-community relationships, which he said are essential for effective law enforcement and national progress.