January 8 2025– Commissioner of Police Mr Clifton Hicken along with members of his Executive Leadership Team (ELT) met yesterday (Tuesday, January 7, 2025) with the Commander of Regional Police Division 4’C’, Senior Superintendent Ewart Wray along with the Officers and ranks under his command at the Division’s Cove and John, East Coast Demerara Headquarters.
The important meeting with ranks of 4โCโ was aimed at reinforcing the standards and expectations for police conduct in 2025 as Guyana continues to undergo a massive infrastructural and economic transformation and as general elections approach.
Commissioner Hicken emphasised the importance of punctuality, appearance, and professionalism among the ranks.
He stated, “We’re not making ‘joke’ this year,” underlining an unwavering commitment to professionalism within the Force. Top Cop Hicken highlighted the evolution of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), asserting that it has become a more effective organisation that holds true to the mandate of Service and Protection.
Further, Commissioner Hicken issued instructions for all ranks to adhere strictly to dress codes and conduct guidelines, stating, “No policeman or woman must be improperly dressed coming to work.”
In a stern warning against corruption, Commissioner Hicken stated that no member of the Force should come before him with allegations of misconduct. He made it clear that any such issues would be dealt with decisively.
“No police, no police after now must come in front of me with corruption allegations. You will be dealt with,” Commissioner Hicken warned.
Additionally, as he did with the ranks of Regions 4โAโ and 4โBโ the previous day, the Top Cop warned the traffic ranks of 4โCโ to desist from stopping vehicles and asking to see documents without their body cameras on. This, he alluded, will ensure accountability in their actions.
“This is the first time in the history of the Guyana Police Force that we can walk into any community and interact with members of the public and be respected,” Top Cop Hicken declared.
Commissioner Hicken, who is a strong advocate for meaningful community engagements, stressed the importance of continuous police-public engagement and urged all members of the Force — from Constables to Officers — to go in the communities and play their part in the ongoing efforts to foster and strengthen partnerships between the police and communities.
During his wide-ranging address, Commissioner Hicken touched on the broader themes of the Forceโs 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, expounding on the pillars of infrastructure, developing our people, partnership and operational efficiency within the Force. Commissioner Hicken lauded the tremendous progress made by the Police in Regional Division 4C under the Command of Senior Superintendent Ewart Wray.
However, he cautioned that there is still much work ahead to be done in 2025. “You’re doing well but you have ten times more to do,” Top Cop Hicken told the officers and ranks from Police Division 4C.
Members of the Forceโs Executive Leadership Team who were a part of the meeting included Deputy Commissioner โAdministrationโ Mr Ravindradat Budhram; Deputy Commissioner โOperationsโ Mr Errol Watts; Deputy Commissioner โLaw Enforcementโ Mr Wendell Blanhum and Commander 4โAโ, Deputy Commissioner Mr Simon McBean.
The Deputy Commissioners, who also addressed the ranks, all stressed the importance of unity and working together to make the Police Force better. Additionally, they urged the ranks to take advantage of the opportunities available to develop themselves personally and professionally.
The Senior Officers also advised those present to pay attention to their deportment, attitude and conduct when on duty and dealing with members of the public.
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The meeting with officers and ranks of Regional Police Division 4’C’ marks a proactive step towards enhancing the effectiveness and integrity of the Guyana Police Force as it prepares for a crucial electoral period later this week.
With a focus on accountability, community engagement, and professional standards, Commissioner Hicken’s leadership aims to position the GPF as the premier law enforcement agency –not just in Guyana – but within the Region, dedicated to serving the public effectively in 2025 and beyond.
