Kingstown, July 16, 2024 – The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) celebrated the inauguration and handing over ceremony of its Advanced Forensic Training Program yesterday. This landmark event, held at the Argyle International Airport Fire Station Lecture Room, marks a significant advancement in the force’s forensic capabilities.
Developed in collaboration with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consulate in Canada, the program is facilitated by Detective Sergeant Peter Gendi of the Toronto Police Service. It is designed to equip officers with cutting-edge forensic skills, enhancing their ability to solve crimes efficiently and effectively.
The ceremony was graced by several distinguished guests, including Mr. Fitz Huggins, Consul General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in Canada. In his remarks, Mr. Huggins highlighted the meticulous planning behind the training program, which involved consultations with Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in charge of Crime, Mr. Trevor Bailey. He stressed the importance of proactive crime-fighting measures and expressed optimism that the training would lead to higher crime-solving rates.
Ms. Lou-ann Thomas, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the training’s role in empowering officers to combat crime more effectively. She acknowledged the contributions of all parties involved and encouraged participants to fully engage with the training.
Commissioner of Police (Ag) Mr. Envill Williams spoke about the challenges law enforcement faces in gathering collaborative evidence due to public apprehension. He assured the community that the training would provide officers with the necessary tools to serve justice more effectively. Mr. Williams thanked Detective Sergeant Gendi for his dedication and urged officers to approach their duties with thoroughness and empathy for victims.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Mr. Trevor Bailey highlighted the RSVGPF’s significant investment in the training program. He expressed gratitude to Consul General Huggins for securing sponsorship and facilitating the course, urging participants to value this opportunity and apply scientific principles in their investigations.
Detective Sergeant Peter Gendi provided an overview of the course, which is composed of 70% hands-on training. He underscored the critical role of homicide detectives in representing victims and detailed various evidence-gathering techniques participants would learn. With extensive experience in the Toronto Police Service’s Forensic Identification Services unit, Detective Sergeant Gendi brings a wealth of knowledge to the program.
The ceremony included the presentation of forensic kits to the Permanent Secretary and the Commissioner of Police from the SVG Consulate in Canada. Additionally, a Canon T7 DSLR camera was handed over to further enhance the RSVGPF’s forensic capabilities.
Running from July 15 to July 19, 2024, the training program covers essential aspects of crime scene investigation, including establishing paths of contamination, documenting crime scenes, and collecting and preserving evidence. Combining lectures with practical exercises, the program offers a comprehensive educational experience.
The RSVGPF remains committed to enhancing the expertise and proficiency of its officers to ensure robust law enforcement and justice within St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Force extends sincere gratitude to all who contributed to making this training program possible.
– END –