By S.Browne. Updated 7:20 a.m., Friday, August 7, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
A St Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard officer has placed among the top five participants in a regional junior officers’ training programme, as two Vincentian officers complete eight weeks of leadership and operational training in Guyana.
Sub Lieutenant Alphaeus Kenlet Francis of the SVG Coast Guard Service and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ronald Benjamin of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) completed the Junior Officers’ Course at the Guyana Police Force Academy from June 1 to July 29, 2026.
According to the RSVGPF, Sub Lieutenant Francis placed fifth overall among the 31 participants from 11 countries who took part in the programme.
The course brought together junior officers and civilian participants from across the region to strengthen leadership abilities, operational readiness and decision-making skills while examining security challenges that extend beyond national borders.
The training covered several areas critical to modern law enforcement, including leadership and ethics, operational planning, public-order command, police use of force, investigations, crime-scene management, human rights, disaster management, conflict resolution and community engagement.
The RSVGPF said the programme focused on preparing officers for the responsibilities that come with leadership and command.
“When a major police operation unfolds, the public sees the officers on the ground. What it does not see is the quality of command behind every decision,” the force stated.
Training included classroom instruction, written and practical exercises, physical training, cane and sword drills, equitation and visits to operational and administrative sites across Guyana.
The RSVGPF highlighted the importance of effective supervision and decision-making in maintaining public confidence and ensuring successful policing outcomes.
“Poor decisions at a crime scene can compromise an investigation. Weak planning can complicate an emergency or public-order operation. Improper supervision or misuse of police authority can damage confidence in the entire organisation,” the release stated.
The course also examined collaborative and intelligence-led policing, with participants encouraged to identify crime patterns, share information and strengthen cooperation between law enforcement agencies, communities and regional partners.
During their time in Guyana, ASP Benjamin and Sub Lieutenant Francis also participated in activities marking the Guyana Police Force’s 187th anniversary, including its route march, Fallen Heroes’ Parade, community initiatives and sporting events.
The RSVGPF said the completion of the course has provided the organisation with officers who have gained regional exposure in leadership, operations and modern policing approaches.
The force added that the value of the training will be reflected in how the knowledge gained is applied and shared within the organisation to strengthen supervision, operational planning, investigations, decision-making and public trust.
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