Four shortlisted to be police complaints investigators

Four candidates have been shortlisted to be investigators at the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) and the list has been submitted to the Public Service Commission for approval.

PCA Chairman, retired Justice Cecil Kennard yesterday said Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee has been informed about the persons chosen by the panel, as a matter of courtesy. Justice Kennard said while the minister was not on the interview panel it was he who appointed the panel for the interviews.

After the minister was informed, the list of candidates was then forwarded to the Public Service Commission.

Justice Kennard said the appointments could be made by next month.

Last October, 12 persons, all locals, were interviewed for the positions, which is integral to the proper functioning of the PCA.

The chosen four are expected to form the investigative arm of the PCA to enable the agency to conduct inquiries independent of the police force.

Last September, about a month after Cabinet granted approval for the establishment of the investigative arm, the ministry advertised for investigators. The advertisement said the sleuths would be required to assist in taking and investigating complaints, to submit statements taken and prepare reports for the Chairman of the PCA.

Applicants were required to have at least seven years of experience in investigating criminal matters, particularly experience in the Criminal Investigation Department of the Guyana Police Force.

The establishment of an investigative arm in the PCA was one of the recommendations that arose from the Disciplined Forces Commission report, roughly ten years ago.