Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken urged ranks of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to continuously provide updates on reports so members of the public are kept informed from the start of an investigation until its conclusion.
Speaking at the CID Annual Award Ceremony, Commissioner Hicken emphasised that once a report is taken, it is the responsibility of CID ranks to ensure continuous communication with the affected parties.
“If you are dealing with a matter, you must inform the person of the status of the matter until its conclusion.
“You cannot take a report from somebody and then they are running to the station to find out what is going on with the report. CID you ought to be the most brilliant in the organisation from the constables right up,” the Top Cop stated.
He reminded CID ranks that they play a critical role within the Guyana Police Force, describing them as the officers who move “stepping stone by stone, stage by stage” behind those being investigated. Commissioner Hicken further noted that CID work differs significantly from general police duties, as investigations are sometimes required to work 24/7.
Addressing detectives, particularly young and junior ranks, Commissioner Hicken cautioned against poor investigative practices. He warned that failing to properly manage a case can result in it collapsing in court, damaging not only the matter at hand but also the image of the entire Police Force.
“If we are serving 99 per cent, that one per cent that we fail to give will tarnish the image of the organisation,” he stated.
Commissioner Hicken also called on the CID to place greater focus on operations, and while acknowledging ongoing efforts, he said more work must be done to strengthen results. Professionalism and education were also highlighted as key areas for improvement.
The Commissioner reiterated the need for CID ranks to upskill themselves academically, warning that without proper training and education, officers may struggle to effectively process information during investigations and interviews. In this regard, he announced plans for a new training programme that will select 30 of the most outstanding ranks to undergo specialised detective training.
He further cautioned ranks about their conduct during public engagements, reminding them that unprofessional conduct can result in disciplinary action or rotation.
In recognition of the hard work and dedication of CID ranks, Commissioner Hicken donated $500,000 to the department. Queensway Security also donated $500,000 to the CID.
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