Hicken tells Region 3 Police: ‘You’re working hard, but you’re not working hard enough’  

Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken urged Police officers attached to Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) to qualify themselves academically to be elevated professionally.

And while he acknowledged the ranks for the work they are doing, Hicken said more needs to be done.

“You’re working hard, but you’re not working hard enough. You are doing better, but there is always room for improvement,” Hicken said as he addressed ranks gathered at the Regional Division 3 annual Awards Ceremony and luncheon at the Leonora Technical Institute on Wednesday.

In the execution of their duties, Hicken told the ranks gathered to continue doing their work and they will be recognised.

“Do your work, and you are going to be promoted. I’m saying that to say this: everybody cannot be promoted at the same time, but work and you’re going to be recognised,” the Commissioner pointed out,” he said.

Turning his attention to the Force’s Strategic Plan, Hicken highlighted the importance of building partnerships in the communities the ranks serve.

“Partnership is one we’re not going to get rid of. As I look around here, I look at the soldiers, and I’m smiling, because I’m always happy to have the soldiers around us. But more importantly, I’m seeing civilians and I’m seeing children…and that is partnership,” he said.

The Force’s Strategic Plan 2022-2026 focuses on six pillars: Operations, partnership, development, infrastructure, performance, professionalism, and accountability.

To this end, Hicken noted that Police structures across the region are being enhanced.

In fact, he said all of the stations in the region are about 99% upgraded to be more modern and conducive to members of the public and the ranks who will occupy them.

“Importantly, the stations are so designed to accommodate members of the public, to accommodate the police, but more importantly, it is conducive for you to work beyond the normal means,” Hicken noted.

As a token of appreciation, Hicken announced a $400,000 cash incentive for Region 3.

Several ranks were also recognised for their work and dedication throughout the year. They received cash incentives and trophies.

Among those dedicated ranks awarded were Detective Corporal Yannick Henry, who copped the Region’s ‘Best Cop’ award, and Regional Traffic Officer Assistant Superintendent Maniram Jagnanan, who received the Region’s ‘Runner-up Best Cop’ award.