Police Force’s Eastern Division gets new home

The adjectives got increasingly more colourful as the Ministry of National Security and the people of North Central Windward officially commissioned this country’s newest police station this week.{{more}}

Described as ‘the bestest’ and ‘the mother of all police stations’ by its admirers, the structure, which stands on 14,187 square feet of land in the heart of Georgetown was officially opened on Tuesday, September 6, boasting more than 30 rooms, including a courtroom, gym and fire department.

When fully operational, the station, built at a cost of $3.658 million, could house up to 54 police officers, including three Non Commissioned Officers, members of the Special Services Unit, Rapid Response Unit and Fire Department.

The station is expected to serve the Eastern Division (Colonarie, Owia, Sandy Bay).

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, speaking at the station’s opening, said that this station, along with the work done on other stations around St. Vincent and the Grenadines was being done to maintain the country’s security.

Outlining the work done in other areas, Gonsalves reminded listeners that new stations were built in Biabou, Canouan and Questelles, while rehabilitation work was done on the stations in Chateaubelair, Barrouallie, Layou, Stubbs Mesopotamia and Central Police Station; rebuilding in Sandy Bay and Rose Hall, and restorative work in Calliaqua.

“I am determined that the police men and women who go out there, who are the first line of defense must have excellent accommodation and have very good working conditions,” he added.

The Prime Minister congratulated all who were responsible for the construction of the Station, in what he described as a collective endeavor by the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Also speaking at the opening, was Commissioner of Police Keith Miller, who described the station as a magnificent structure.

Miller called on the residents of the community to assist in the policing and upkeep of the station, which would cost over $4 million when furniture, fittings and the fire tender which is to be stationed at the station are included.

“It is the responsibility of every citizen to ensure that we as police men and women do what is right…. and our responsibility is to ensure that we stay within the framework of the law. Taking care of our station is no exception. Please be our eyes and ears.”

The newest addition to the fight against crime, which was also described as a ‘five star hotel’, was designed by Allister Browne and constructed by Sea Operations Construction Company. (JJ)