Saturday night, February 30th, police officers and members of the community turned out in their numbers at Italia Restaurant, CuisinArt Golf Resort and Spa, for a delightful dinner and ball which climaxed a crowded week of activities in celebration of the 44th Anniversary of the Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF).
The guests were welcomed by Inspector Marva Brooks who was the Chairperson of the evening’s activities. She invited Commissioner of Police, Paul Morrison, to give a few remarks. In his review of the week of activities, Mr. Morrison highlighted that it was a very eventful and successful week.
On the heels of a murder which was committed during the week, he said: “In order to tackle crime and keep this country safe, we have to have a relationship between the communities we serve and the police force. I understand that, over the years, this relationship has been strained. I appeal to the public that from this moment forward we try to mend any differences we may have had in the past. A successful country requires a successful relationship”. Mr. Morrison also reminded the gathering that they must revisit the days where communities had much stronger relationships. “It’s not just the relationship between the police and the community that sometimes is strained – some of our communities are fractured. We know that there are some young men who cannot move more than a square mile from where they live without the risk of being injured or shot”, he said. He continued: “In order to heal those fractures within our community, we have to get on top of serious crimes and serious criminals. If we are to do that, we need to be supported with skills and competencies in order to do that. We also need legislation and the public [interest], in order to tackle serious crimes”. Mr. Morison concluded by saying that it was his aim to make the Royal Anguilla Police Force the best in the Caribbean.
Sergeant Annette Duncan, who retired from the Royal Anguilla Police Force on Saturday 31st Janurary, 2015, was the recipient of a special award from the RAPF, thanking her for her long service and continued support for the Force and Police Week.
Entertainer of the year, Boss and his Horsepower Band, closed the event with a stellar performance as patrons took to the dance floor.
