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 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force continues efforts to strengthen the preparedness, discipline and professional capability of its personnel.
The course was officially launched during an opening ceremony attended by Acting Commissioner of Police Mr. Trevor Bailey; Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr. Junior O. Simmons; Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr. Benzil Samuel; Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ag.) Mr. Brenton Smith; Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Carl Lewis, Officer in Charge of the Special Service Unit; six course instructors; and the participating recruits.
The training programme 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. The second develops 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.
Opening the programme, ASP Carl 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.
ACP Benzil Samuel reinforced the importance of physical conditioning, teamwork and operational preparedness. He reminded the recruits that security duties may require them to function in difficult and unpredictable circumstances, making physical readiness, communication and the ability to work as a team essential.
ACP (Ag.) Brenton Smith focused on the professional responsibilities that accompany security work. He urged participants to remain alert, disciplined, respectful and accountable throughout the course and beyond.
Particular emphasis was placed on integrity and the lawful exercise of authority. Recruits were reminded that any use of force must be lawful, necessary, reasonable and proportionate, and that members of the public must be treated with dignity and respect.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Simmons told the recruits that their conduct will ultimately reflect not only on them individually, but on the wider organisation they represent. He highlighted ethics, communication, teamwork and operational readiness as essential components of professional service and encouraged participants to take full advantage of the experience and knowledge of the instructors assigned to the course.
In addressing the recruits, Acting Commissioner Bailey reminded them that the programme extends well beyond physical training.
The Acting Commissioner 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.
The Basic Security Course is expected to conclude with recruits better prepared to undertake security duties and equipped with a stronger foundation in discipline, teamwork, integrity, operational awareness and professional conduct.
The Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force remains committed to ensuring that personnel entrusted with public safety receive the training, guidance and standards necessary to perform their duties effectively and responsibly.
