By Kisean Joseph
A whistleblower within the country’s police force has told Observer of issues plaguing the organisation, including outdated equipment, understaffing, a lack of resources to do the job, and low morale.
She says police are grappling with internal discontent, expressing frustration over working conditions and low pay.
The high-ranking informant Laila (not her real name) claimed an “inner clique” at the helm of the force ultimately stifles some officers’ upward mobility – a charge that has been categorically denied by the Commissioner of Police.
“I would even venture to say, persons coming to the organisation who are qualified, and qualified to enhance and to improve on what we do, because they’re not in that circle, they would have had to leave,” Laila said.
With some officers’ trust in the institution of the police force eroding as crime rates surge and government officials scramble to address the crisis, some have called for a complete overhaul of the nation’s law enforcement apparatus. The Police Welfare Association recently made allegations of low morale in the force and expressed a wish for a change in leadership.
Laila commented on the promotion criteria, stating that “it seems that those who are close to the Commissioner and his executive, as well as those who carry out the directives of individuals within that inner circle, are the ones being considered for promotions”.
She said it isn’t a matter of a lack of commitment, willingness to serve, academic qualifications, or experience.
“I can overcome the lack of leadership, the demotivation, and the challenges due to my experience,” she explained. “What I try to do is to encourage and to motivate people around me, to try to influence them positively, to let them know … let your work speak for itself.”
When asked about the method of advancement within the police force, Laila alluded to an opaque promotion process.
“There’s no objective way to determine if I have completed all the necessary steps for advancement,” she claimed.
However, when asked about the allegations, Police Commissioner Atlee Rodney provided a clear explanation, stating that a well-defined promotion process is in place within the department.
He elaborated that his role in establishing the criteria is limited to overseeing the initial advancement of constables to the rank of corporal. Beyond this point, the responsibility for promotions transitions to the Police Service Commission.
For higher ranks, the authority shifts further up to the Office of the Prime Minister, where final decisions are made.
Rodney also recently told Observer Radio that morale was currently high among police officers.
The force recently announced plans to welcome 140 new recruits to bolster operations.
