Ten officers of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) have received internationally recognized certification following the completion of a five-day Defence and Arrest Tactics Instructor Course conducted in collaboration with the ASMA Security Training Academy.
According to the GPS, the programme, which was accredited by Defence Technology, was aimed at strengthening the operational competence and instructional capacity of prison officers.
The participants underwent training in the use of force and report writing, tactical communication, Management of Disturbance and Tactical Situations (MDTS), MEB techniques, HIATT handcuffing procedures, the deployment of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray and conducted electrical weapons (CEWs), as well as instructor methodology and best practices.
At the conclusion of the programme, four officers—Roylex Holder, Keshon Henry, Colwyn Thompson and Aklem Alexander—were certified as instructors. Six others—Devon James, Roy Lancaster, Kelvin Mingo, Akeem James, Erwin Mentore and Lincoln Persaud—received certification as operators.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Friday at Prison Headquarters, programme trainer Dr Oluyemi Mashama, a certified instructor trainer in advanced defence technology, said the internationally certified course was more than a recertification exercise.
He said the programme reinforces professional standards, aligns participants with modern best practices and prepares instructors to train others safely, ethically and effectively.
Deputy Director of Prisons Kevin Pilgrim said the training would help officers perform their duties with greater confidence while enhancing the safety and security of both inmates and prison staff. He also reminded the officers of the importance of exercising sound judgement when applying the skills acquired during the programme.
Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot underscored the importance of ongoing training within the prison service, noting that more officers, including female ranks, should be afforded similar opportunities to improve the service’s response to incidents and foster a safer working environment.
Elliot also said the Government of Guyana would continue investing in technology and non-lethal equipment to enable prison officers to carry out their duties safely and in keeping with modern correctional best practices. He congratulated the officers on attaining their international certification.
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