Top Cop warns Police ranks of misconduct while on duty

…says those found guilty will be dealt with condignly

Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken emphasised that officers must be aware of the constant scrutiny they face as representatives of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and urged that at all times they must conduct themselves with a high standard of professionalism.
This, he shared while speaking to over 500 ranks at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, Georgetown, last week while sternly warning them that those who breached the code of conduct of the GPF will be dealt with condignly.
“You are ambassadors of the Guyana Police Force. Your conduct, appearance, and punctuality reflect not just on you but on the entire institution. Any lapse in these will be handled appropriately,” the Top Cop stated.
The meeting, which also included members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), focused on plans and expectations for the Force in 2025.

Commissioner Hicken and his deputies laid out a vision for continuous development within the organisation, including improving human resources through academic and police-related training, enhancing physical infrastructure, advancing technology, and strengthening ties with communities across Guyana.
In his address, Commissioner Hicken highlighted the strides made in fostering community relations and the importance of maintaining this momentum. He stated,
“We’re doing well, but we can do more. This is the first time in the history of the Guyana Police Force that we can walk into any community, any region, and interact with members of the public. This initiative is one that must be maintained and will be maintained. And when you leave here today and you venture into where you live, you are to create an atmosphere where people are willing to come on board with you.”

He also touched on the long-awaited promotions list, assuring the ranks that it would be released soon. “I don’t need to tell you when, but it’s going to come very soon. You’re going to have your promotion,” he said. However, he reminded the ranks that promotions could not happen all at once and would be rolled out gradually.
Before concluding, Commissioner Hicken reaffirmed his commitment to the Force’s progress, declaring, “This Guyana Police Force will continue to progress until we become the best Police Force in the Caribbean.”

The Executive Leadership Team, which included Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram, Errol Watts, Wendell Blanhum, Fazil Karimbaksh, and Simon McBean, also delivered brief remarks.
They emphasised the need for unity and teamwork within the Force while encouraging officers to uphold professionalism and honesty in all their endeavours.
The meeting served as a rallying call for the GPF to push forward with its goals for 2025, while holding its members accountable for their roles as custodians of the law and stewards of public trust.