Acting Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken on Thursday visited Lethem, Region 9, and listened to law enforcement issues that are plaguing the town even as he urged residents to work with and not against the police, a release from Guyana Police Force said.
The release stated that the interactive session was held at the Tabatinga Sports Complex in Lethem. Regional Chairman, Bryan Allicock, addressed the acting Commissioner and said it is important that the Force and the community maintain a good relationship which will help to build trust and foster cohesion. The release cited Mayor of Lethem, John Macedo, as saying that Lethem is growing and developing and, as such, issues would arise. Macedo further indicated that he is pleased with how the Guyana Police Force executes its duties. He noted that Hicken’s visit was very timely and much appreciated.
The release quoted Guyana’s Consul-General to Brazil, Rodger King, who noted that the “police are our friend and as such we must continue to work together”. King lauded Hicken for working assiduously to change the dynamics of the general public’s interaction with the police. Hicken, according to the Force’s release, notified those in attendance that such partnerships are adding to the Force’s strategic plan, which is to bridge the gap between the Force and citizens by strengthening strong police-community ties. He referred to the official launching of the GPF Community Relations Department in June last year. This department is tasked with building and fostering a professional and collaborative partnership through positive engagement and public trust between the police and the community and promoting safe communities by reducing the fear of crime, especially in vulnerable communities and among vulnerable groups.
The release also stated that the acting Commissioner covered in great detail, the integration of school dropouts into society. He also urged community members to foster an environment to help young people thrive. He applauded the Commuity Policing Group (CPG) in the Region for their dedication and hard work. In closing, Hicken echoed, “I want you to work with the Police, not against the Police.” Present at the meeting were: Commander of Regional Division #9, Raphael Rose, Deputy Commander of Regional Division #9, Ally, Region Nine Town Clerk, Keisha Vincent, representatives from the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Fire Service, members of the Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry and CPG.
