HGP Nightly News – Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken has delivered a clear and uncompromising message to ranks of the Criminal Investigation Department, underscoring professionalism, education, accountability, and community partnership as central pillars of modern policing.
Hicken was addressing officers and ranks of the Criminal Investigation Department during the department’s Annual Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony, held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe in Eve Leary.
While acknowledging the festive spirit of the season, the Commissioner said Christmas also presents an opportunity for reflection, renewal, and recommitment to duty. He thanked officers for their service and reminded them of the high expectations placed on the department.
COMMUNITY TRUST AT THE CENTRE OF POLICING
Commissioner Hicken stressed that effective policing depends on strong partnerships with the public, noting that law enforcement cannot function in isolation. He urged ranks to remain visible, approachable, and respectful, emphasising that every officer represents the integrity and image of the Guyana Police Force both on and off duty.
According to Hicken, trust-building and community engagement are essential, particularly in the communities CID officers serve daily.
A major focus of the Commissioner’s address was the development of human capital within the Force. He encouraged officers at all levels to pursue academic and professional qualifications, pointing to the availability of free or supported programmes designed to strengthen capacity and leadership.
Junior ranks were urged to seize learning opportunities early, while senior ranks were reminded that continued education enhances professionalism, confidence, and command.
ZERO TOLERANCE FOR UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Given the sensitive nature of CID’s work, Commissioner Hicken reminded ranks that they are held to especially high standards of integrity and accountability. He stressed the need for thorough, ethical, and impartial investigations, warning that even minor lapses in conduct can compromise cases and erode public confidence.
Professional discipline, he said, is not optional but essential to justice.
Hicken also addressed internal management, explaining that rotation across divisions and exposure to different areas of policing are intended to strengthen skills and improve performance, not to punish officers. He encouraged collaboration across departments, describing policing as a collective effort that succeeds only through teamwork.
Turning to modernisation, the Commissioner highlighted the increasing use of technology to improve efficiency, accountability, and service delivery. He encouraged officers to adapt to new systems supporting investigative and administrative functions, noting that modern policing requires modern tools.
The Commissioner underscored the importance of early engagement with young people, noting that positive interaction can help shape attitudes and prevent future criminal behaviour. He urged ranks to take part in community outreach initiatives aimed at building trust and fostering lasting relationships.
Commissioner Hicken expressed gratitude to officers and their families for the sacrifices made in service to the nation. He also thanked private sector partners and stakeholders who continue to support the work of the Police Force.
He ended by extending Christmas greetings and best wishes for a safe, peaceful, and prosperous New Year to all members of the Criminal Investigation Department and their families, reinforcing a message of unity, professionalism, and renewed commitment as the Force moves forward.
