“We would like to see professionalism” – Top Cop says to police undergoing training

Georgetown: The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Monday held the opening ceremony for their Station Management and Newly Subordinate Officers Course 2019. Commissioner of Police, Leslie James., gave the feature address at the opening ceremony for the launch of the courses.

Police Commissioner, Leslie James.

The commissioner gave weight to what it means for those ranks who were selected to undergo the various courses; letting them know that it is a testament to the administration noticing their work, and placing faith in them to continue to carry out their duties with a sense of pride and professionalism.

“From this day forward, we would like to see a marked change with your approach to your police duties. We would like to see commitment as you execute your daily routine. We would like to see professionalism, when you’re engaging with your peers, engaging with your colleagues, and more importantly when you’re engaging with members of the public.”

The Top Cop also spoke directly to traffic ranks present, highlighting that every time he has heard of bribery towards traffic ranks, it was always at the behest of an offer, and as such, not only are the ranks culpable but those civilians that seek to bribe the officers as well.

“Let me advise you, civilians, we’ll be coming after you, those of you who are offering … It is simple, do not commit offences, if you do not have a tint permit you just cannot carry a tint on your vehicle.”

On the sidelines of the ceremony, Commissioner James was questioned whether the police force is instructed politically to conduct investigations.

“Something was brought to my attention by the minister, and based on that an investigation ensued, not instructions. I don’t receive political instructions; I must make that very clear. I do not receive, and I will not yield to any political instruction,” he responded.

The commissioner was responding to allegations of political instruction to investigate Peter Ramsaroop in the Charandass Persaud Probe.