SSU conducts basic security course for 16 Auxiliary Recruits

Sixteen Auxiliary Police recruits have begun three weeks of intensive training under the Special Service Unit’s Basic Security Course No. 1 of 2026, as the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), continues efforts to strengthen the preparedness, discipline and professional capability of its personnel.

In a release, the Force said the training programme, which began on September 16, 2026 forms part of the SSU Auxiliary Recruitment Programme and is intended to provide recruits with a practical foundation for carrying out security duties effectively, lawfully and responsibly.

Over the three weeks, participants will undergo classroom instruction, physical conditioning, drill and ceremony, firearms and shooting training, map reading, first aid, internal security procedures, field exercises and other practical training. Their progress will be assessed through written, physical and practical examinations.

The programme is divided into three phases. The first introduces recruits to the discipline, routines and standards required of them. In the second, there will be focus on developing their physical, tactical and operational skills, while the final phase places recruits in field exercises designed to test endurance, teamwork, decision-making and their ability to function effectively under pressure.The RSVGPF said the course was officially launched during an opening ceremony attended by the Police top brass, including Acting Commissioner Trevor Bailey; Acting Deputy Commissioner Junior Simmons; Assistant Commissioner Benzil Samuel; and Acting Assistant Commissioner Brenton Smith.

Also present were Assistant Superintendent of Police Carl Lewis, Officer in Charge of the Special Service Unit, along with six course instructors.

Opening the programme, ASP Lewis outlined the demands of the course and encouraged the recruits to approach the training with discipline, punctuality and a willingness to learn. He stressed that the programme is deliberately structured to combine theoretical instruction with practical application so that recruits understand not only what is expected of them, but how to perform those responsibilities competently.

Acting Commissioner Bailey reminded the recruits that the programme extends well beyond physical training, and stressed that the real measure of their preparation will be their ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain discipline and accept responsibility when placed in demanding situations. He also underscored the seriousness of firearms training and the level of maturity and accountability expected of anyone entrusted with a firearm.

Recruits were further reminded of the standards historically associated with the Special Service Unit and encouraged to use the course to build the confidence, discipline and professional habits necessary to become dependable members of the organisation.