![New cohort of recruits at the opening ceremony… [photo credit :OPM]](https://thevoiceslu.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/New-cohort-of-recruits-at-the-opening-ceremony-feat.jpg)
On Tuesday, government representatives and stakeholders, including members of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF), gathered for the Opening Ceremony of Initial Recruit Training Course No. 39.
Upon completion of the training course, 132 recruits-comprising 80 police recruits, 20 city constabulary recruits, 17 correctional officer recruits, and 15 port police recruits-will join the protective services.
Additionally, four of these officers are in the final stages of vetting.
Their graduation will significantly enhance manpower and operational capacity across the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, City Constabulary, and Bordelais Correctional Facility, according to official sources.
At the media launch on Tuesday, Commissioner of Police Verne Garde addressed the alarming rise in violent crime throughout the country. He made it clear that he is taking decisive action to confront lawbreakers and will not allow the situation to deteriorate further.
“I’ve met with my high command, and we have initiated a mission to confront these perpetrators,” he stated firmly.
Garde urged citizens of Saint Lucia to exercise patience as he and his command take strategic measures to restore safety.
He expressed, “While I may be a man of few words, my actions will speak volumes. In the coming month or two, the results will be evident.”
Prime Minister Philip J Pierre echoed this sentiment on his Facebook page, stating, “I was proud to witness the induction of these recruits, who will play a crucial role in enhancing the security of our ports and communities.”
He affirmed, “We are committed to investing in our law enforcement agencies to ensure a safer and more secure Saint Lucia for every citizen. I wish all recruits great success as they prepare to protect and serve the people of Saint Lucia.”