In recent times, the police have expressed satisfaction with the relationship between themselves and the public and this year it is evident in their theme for Police Week, ‘Rising to meet the challenges in partnership with the community.’
Police Public Relations Officer, Senior Sergeant William Holder explains the rationale for its selection. “We recognise we live in challenging times – although not confined to Antigua & Barbuda – due to the downturn in the world economy. We see this as contributing to an increase in criminal activity, but this can be addressed if we work in collaboration with the community,” he said.
Over the past month, the senior sergeant said, the collaboration has led to a reduction in criminal activity and solving of many crimes.
Police Week 2010, the officer said, is “aimed at showing appreciation to the public and to let them know the importance of their efforts, and to continue our good relations.” As a prelude to the start of the week beginning September 5, a number of pre-events will be held. First off was a Road Race and Fun Walk to which the public was invited to participate. It kicked off at 5 pm from the VC Bird Bust at the West Bus Station to Police Recreation Ground. Prizes were awarded in the various categories. The event was sponsored by Harney Motors. A Netball Competition will be held at YMCA on Thursday September 2 between police and other teams in the community league.
The week officially starts with a church service at All Saints Anglican Church at 8:30 am, after which a breakfast will be held for rank and file and a few invited guests. On that same day, the lawmen will host Sunday Half Hour, where the police choir will be featured on ABS television. On Sunday, too, there will be a Band Tattoo in Bolans and the Pigotts and Liberta Playing fields. The general public is invited to all police stations, on Monday from 9 am, to see police at work and some may have an opportunity to go patrolling with them.
Continuing Monday, there will be the Fire Brigade Kaufman Cup Competition, in which a team from the Montserrat police Force will show off their skills along with the local cops. One of the more well-attended shows, a Talent and Fashion Show, will be held at 8 pm at Police Recreation Grounds.Tuesday is Career Day when children from the various schools have the opportunity to work along with the police for part of the day. Inter-force football competition at YASCO is at 4 pm. Wednesday at 8 pm is a Variety Concert at Police Recreation Ground, where a skit will be performed. Presentations will be made from the Anguilla Force. On Thursday, there will be a police display at ARG and the Beating of the Retreat at 5 pm, followed by the Calypso Competition at Police Recreation Grounds at 9pm. Sports Day is on Friday at Yasco from 11:15 am and there will be a dance at Police Recreation Grounds at 9 pm. Saturday is Veterans’ Cocktail, where persons who would have served over 20 years will be feted. Sunday rounds off the week with Fun Day and Swimming Competition for police family and friends.
Senior Sergeant Holder noted that Police Week is the time when the general public gets a chance to see the other side of the police, a chance to interact closer. “We‘re extending an invitation to all to come out and be part of our week of activities,” he said.
