The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has strengthened its ranks with the addition of 96 new recruits, officially welcomed during a passing out parade and graduation ceremony held on Thursday, January 29.

Members of Course 39 of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force take part in their passing-out parade. (Photo credit: Kherim Nelson)

Of the new recruits, 82 were assigned to the police force, while 14 will serve as port police officers. The ceremony marked the completion of training for Course 39 and brought together senior officers, government officials, and family members to celebrate the milestone.

Speakers throughout the event urged the graduates to approach their roles with discipline, integrity, and a strong sense of service.

“We do not wear the badge to be seen. We wear it to serve,” Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr Mashama Sealy told the new officers.

The graduates completed 29 weeks of intensive training at the Royal Police Academy. Their preparation included physical conditioning, academic instruction, discipline-focused training, and multiple examinations designed to test readiness for active duty.

During the ceremony, Inspector Alyshus Joseph, Commandant of the Royal Police Academy, highlighted the need for urgent upgrades to the academy’s facilities. He called for renovations to improve training conditions for future cohorts.

Prime Minister Philip J Pierre, during his presentation, responded by confirming that funding has already been allocated to address those concerns. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the police force, while also stressing the expectation of improved public safety.

“All the resources that are fiscally possible will be injected into the Saint Lucia Police Force,” the Prime Minister said. 

“From those resources, I will be requesting results. The money has been voted for the renovation of your headquarters, and as soon as the budget process is complete, repairs will begin here at the academy.”