The Guyana Police Force (GPF) celebrated its members’ dedication and hard work during the annual Christmas Awards Ceremony held on December 5, 2025, at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Police Headquarters, Eve Leary. This year’s event showcased over $226.9 million in cash and awards presented for outstanding performance.
The ceremony was chaired by Deputy Commissioner of Administration, Mr. Ravindradat Budhram, who underscored the core purpose of policing. He stated, “We serve with courage, we protect with integrity, and we stand as the protectors of law and order, and the people of Guyana.” His remarks resonated with the spirit of the event, recognizing those who embody these values daily.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken delivered the feature address, emphasizing the Force’s commitment to continuous growth and modernization. He noted a significant shift toward technology-driven enforcement in 2025, citing the installation of 30 speed cameras and the Safe Roads Intelligent System. This shift led to a dramatic increase in compliance, with electronic ticketing rising from 837 in 2024 to 24,793 in 2025, even as fatal accidents saw only a slight increase of 2%. Overall accidents, however, decreased by 15%, indicating that strategic enforcement and educational initiatives are proving effective.
Hicken highlighted substantial progress in crime-fighting efforts, revealing that serious crimes had decreased by 25.22%, with a clear-up rate of 61.76%. This success was attributed to proactive policing and the establishment of real-time intelligence committees across all divisions, enhancing the Force’s capacity to detect and prevent threats.
Honourable Oneidge Walrond, M.P., Minister of Home Affairs, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the government’s ongoing investment in the GPF. Under the leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, she noted the delivery of 37 new and upgraded police facilities across the regions, along with five new command centers, which significantly enhance infrastructure, mobility, and operational capacity. “These investments are not symbolic. They are built so that you can serve from safe, functional, modern environments and deliver policing that matches the pace and expectations of a rapidly developing nation,” Walrond stated.
The ceremony recognized notable achievements, particularly in the Criminal Investigations Department, which excelled in removing drugs, guns, and ammunition from the streets, as well as solving major crimes. The Narcotics Branch received over $4 million in cash incentives, and youth groups across all regional divisions were also honored.
Among the awards, the coveted Best Cop award was presented to Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredricks, Head of the Narcotics Branch. Assistant Superintendent Johann Henry of the Criminal Investigations Department, Regional Division #6, was named the first runner-up. The Sportsman of the Year award went to Mr. Quentin Sampson, while Sportswoman of the Year was awarded to Ms. Aaliyah Moore.
The ceremony served not only as a recognition of past achievements but as motivation for continued excellence in service to the nation.
