The Guyana Police Force’s 182nd Anniversary Awards Ceremony:

Some of the awardees pose for a photo with (seated) the Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn (second from right), Permanent Secretary, Mae Touissant Jr. Thomas (second from left), Commissioner of Police (Ag) Nigel Hoppie (right) and National Security Advisor, Gerry Gouveia.

As part of its annual anniversary celebrations, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) yesterday presented more than $17M in cash and prizes to over three thousand of its members and others in recognition of their service over the year.

At yesterday’s ceremony which was held at the Police Officer’s Mess, Eve Leary, awards were given to 3,258 ranks for their outstanding performance in discovering illegal firearms, the interdiction of narcotics and the arrest of wanted persons. Also included were twentyeight Community Policing Groups.

The GPF celebrates its 182nd anniversary this year. Since the commencement of this ceremony in 1990, a total of $448,865,000 has been paid out to ranks as cash incentives.

Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner of Police (ag) Nigel Hoppie said that over the years the force would have faced many challenges but has risen to them and fulfilled its mandate of providing public safety and security.

Notwithstanding the COVID-19 pandemic and its restrictions, Hoppie said in keeping with its promise to build public trust and confidence, there has been significant involvement in community work and community outreach with emphasis on molding our youths.

“The Guyana Police Force’s Social Crime Prevention Programme is continuing in all the Regional in all the Regional Police Divisions with particular emphasis on youths and strengthening police community relationships,” he said.

The programme, Hoppie noted is focused at empowering youths to develop skills and moral values in order to become productive and meaningful contributors to society and building public trust.

“Police work is generally for a cause and not applause, and I am confident that the Guyana Police Force will continue to perform at a high level,” Hoppie said.

The event is held twice yearly. In December, the number of awardees is usually higher.