The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT – Assistant Commissioner of Police Emrick Seymour told officers they are “servants of the public” and should treat civilians with “the utmost care and respect”.

He expressed concern about the numerous complaints he has been getting from members of the public about “unprofessional” behaviour on the part of officers on Grand Bahama.

“This type of behaviour is not what we in our institution are all about. It can erode the fabric of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, it goes against the principles and ideals of the organisation,” he told officers at the Police Training College.

“We are depending on you to change that and to reverse this trend. We are servants of the public and we should always treat members of the public courteously, professionally, and with the utmost care and respect at all times.”

Sixteen officers were recognised on Monday for completing the four-week Constable Development Course. It was the second group of graduates this year.

PC1849 Kendal Smith of the Drug Enforcement Unit was the top achiever. PPC2858 Lamano Bartlett of the Eastern Division placed second; and PC3451 Lenicka Scott of Central Detective Unit was third.

Mr Seymour congratulated the group of officers and reminded them they are the bastions between the law and lawlessness.

He reminded officers that members of the public are always watching them.

“These training initiatives are extremely important because we are serving at a time in our country where the RBPF is being tested and tried at every turn.

“It is important for you to come back in the classroom to be re-trained to ensure that you stay on the cutting edge, and that you be reminded of your duties and responsibilities.

“They are depending on us as police officers and that is why we are here, and that is what we are being paid to do – to serve members of the public.

“So we are not doing anyone or any member of the public a favour by tending to their particular concern,” he said.

“Wherever we find rogue officers among us we will be weeding them out because too much is at stake and we can ill afford to have anyone spoiling the good name of this organisation.”