Outstanding policemen and women stationed in Region Two were on Wednesday recognized by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) at a Christmas luncheon and award ceremony held at Jaigobin Hotel 2 at Henrietta, Region Two.
During the award ceremony, 85 persons were honoured, including policemen and women, members of the private sector and other stakeholders who supported the region’s police throughout the year. Copping the title for “Best Cop” was 23-year-old Lance Corporal, Shamar Marcus. Hailing from Region Three, Marcus joined the police in 2019 after having a strong calling to serve his fellow Guyanese. He was transferred to Region Two and worked in the traffic department. Regional Commander, Khemraj Shivbaran, recently transferred Marcus to the anti-crime unit where he has excelled. He received a trophy, a certificate and $50,000. The runner-up was Sergeant Hilton Benjamin who received a trophy, certificate and $25,000. Both cops said they were delighted to be recognized for their hard work.
At the award ceremony, Shivbarran presented a statistical overview of the Division’s achievements and challenges. Shivbarran said there has been a significant decrease in crime in the region. He said in 2021, 50 serious crimes were reported while in 2022 only 30 were reported. He attributed the decrease to good policing, cordon searches and intelligence gathering. He said that while there was a decrease in serious crimes, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done in the region.
He said the Guyana Police Force will continue to work with various stakeholders ensuring that citizens are safe and protected. He pointed to the increased police presence in the communities.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, Errol Watts urged policemen to continue to upgrade their skills. He said that President Irfaan Ali made a commitment to provide scholarships to policemen. “Equip yourself with the necessary qualifications, the Government of Guyana will stand the expenses of all the trainings. All you have to do is make use of the opportunity and study and when you retire at 55 you do not have to be a guard or maid… you can be of further use in a government institution,” Watts said.
He said that the police should work to gain the respect of the community and as such police officers need to act in a professional manner.
He also used the opportunity to congratulate the policemen on behalf of Commissioner of Police [Ag], Clifton Hicken. He mentioned that three million and forty-eight thousand dollars were handed out in awards to policemen in the region. He also disclosed that an additional $300,000 will be given to policemen in the region as awards for 2022.
Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva congratulated the policemen and women for their contribution to society. She called on them to remain professional so that members of the public can continue to retain their trust in them.
