New recruits join the police force |25 November 2023

Twenty-one (21) new recruits have joined the rank of police officers after completing seven months of basic policing training at the Seychelles Police Academy in Pointe Larue.

The fourteen (14) male and seven female constables received their certificates in a passing out ceremony held yesterday afternoon at the academy in the presence of Vice-President Ahmed Afif; Police commissioner, Ted Barbe; assistant commissioner, Francis Songoire; Attorney general Frank Ally; senior and junior police officers; civilian staff; family members and other invited guests.

Initially, 31 civilians started the training but only the 21 made it through. Thirteen (13) constables, 11 male and two female officers, have joined the Public Order and Tactical Response Unit (P0TRU) while the rest, namely five female and three male officers, have joined the regular visible policing.

Aside from presentation of certificates, there was also prizes for best performing trainees. The best overall performers were Tanishah Labonte of visible policing and Rendy Denousse of POTRU. They received their certificates, shields and other prizes from Vice-President Afif. Both Constable Labonte and Constable Denousse said they were very happy and proud of their achievements. They thanked everyone, including their family members and team colleagues, for pushing them all the way. They said the training was tough but they managed to pull through with the help and support of their colleagues.

“We are a small island nation and we are not supposed to have that so many crimes. With the new team joining in we are ready to help reduce the amount of crime happening in the country,” Constable Denousse said.

“I am an inquisitive person who questions a lot and like to interact so that is why I think I won the overall best. I adapted very well into the training considering my family background with family members in the force. I want to rise up further in the force to help the weaker ones,” Constable Labonte said.

Other best performers were Guillano Edmond of visible policing and Vincent Petrousse of POTRU. Best outdoor performers went to Heather Japha of visible policing and Philip Rideau of POTRU. For most disciplined performer, the prize went to Ashmia Pillay of visible policing and Shawn Nicette of POTRU was the best academic. 

In his address on the occasion, Commissioner Barbe called on the new constables to be true to their oaths, and to serve diligently. He added that with the newly acquired knowledge and skills they were thus amply equipped, and should not fail in their duties, discharging their professional responsibilities with firm confidence and self-imposed rule of purpose.   

“That you have chosen to make a career in the police force is an indication that you have the desire to serve your country and your fellow citizens with the most supreme of intentions. That is to engage all manners of crimes that destroy the good values of our society,” Commissioner Barbe said.

He reiterated his support, and that of the management, in the development of their career paths within the force.

The new recruits were also commended for their achievements by the commander of POTRU, Superintendent Jean-Paul Ernesta, who also delivered words of encouragement.

He also highlighted some of the obstacles they will face in their daily duties and the importance of integrity, honesty and hard work. 

He called on them to respect the public at all times.

“Respect must be given to all individuals at all times. We believe we can best earn respect by first respecting the rights of others,” Superintendent Ernesta said.

In her vote of thanks, Constable Ashmia Pillay expressed gratitude to all those who helped them in their endeavours to become police officers and stressed their intention to serve and protect the country.

During the ceremony, Superintendent Ernesta presented the new branded logo of POTRU to Commissioner Barbe. The new logo is part of the police’ rebranding exercise to make the unit more visible. It will feature on the unit’s letter heads and other documents including its fleet of vehicles.

The ceremony which started with a parade by the recruits and other police officers on the parade ground, ended with a slow and quick march off the ground.

Text & photos Patrick Joubert