Sound work being done at RPTC

THE Regional Police Training Centre (RPTC) is working assiduously to ensure that the law enforcement officers who pass through that facility are properly trained.

 

The assurance came recently from the Commandant of RPTC, Sylvester Louis. He was speaking last week at the 139th Passing-Out Parade of Police Recruits from the Royal Police Forces of Anguilla and Barbados.

 

“What we teach here at RPTC has been kept current, in keeping with the transient nature of policing. Be sure that we are ever mindful of the volatility of the societies in which we serve. This being so, our training programmes and delivery methods are so structured in order to obtain maximum benefits,” he said.

 

Giving an update on the Centre’s operations over the past year, Louis told the sizeable audience gathered at the RPTC’s headquarters at Seawell, Christ Church, that during the period numerous courses and workshops were hosted, which provided training for as many as 450 persons. Additionally, he said that one of the highlights of the year was the inaug-ural crime symposium, which brought together crime fighters in the island for a brainstorming session to discuss crime trends and solutions. As a result of the outcome of that symposium, Louis said the Centre has embarked upon several revolutionary programmes that are expected to better enhance how they perform their duties.

 

“I argue that this approach is integral if the implications of the Single Market and Economy in unencumbered travel throughout the region, the stark reality of terrorism and the return to our shores of ISIS fighters are to be successfully tackled,” he said.

 

With that in mind, the Commandant revealed that steps have also been taken to renovate the shooting range at the Centre and an obstacle course has been built. He made the disclosure while indicating that there are plans to construct a driving skid pad to also assist with their training needs.

 

Meanwhile, he said the Centre is also doing its part in the community. Noting that the RPTC is celebrating 60 years in existence, he said that with the help of the Chairman of Crime Stoppers for the Caribbean, Latin America and Bermuda, Julie Dash, the recently graduated 

recruits took part in a charity initiative in which they repaired six homes and donated food stuff, clothing, books and $35 000 to 20 indigent families in the Southern Division. 

 

“Yes ladies and gentlemen, we are turning out not only solid police officers, but also young officers blessed with tenets of Christian values,” he added. (JRT)