A total of 316 members of the Mauritius Police Force were awarded the President's Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on September 19, during a ceremony held at the Casernes centrales. The medal recognizes 18 years of service and exemplary conduct within the police force. The event was attended by Commissioner of Police, Rampersad Sooroojebally, who paid tribute to the recipients' commitment and loyalty.
Commissioner Sooroojebally highlighted the evolution of the policing profession and the new challenges it faces, including cybercrime, organized crime, and drug trafficking. He emphasized the need for police officers to adapt and acquire new skills to effectively address these threats. The medal ceremony served as a testament to the officers' dedication and hard work, with many expressing their gratitude and pride in being part of the police force.
For some recipients, the medal held great personal significance, representing not only a recognition of their service but also a celebration of their family's support. WPC Daramsing, for instance, was accompanied by her family, including her parents, husband, and two children, who had come to share in her joy. She expressed her happiness and satisfaction with her 18-year career, saying it had been a fulfilling journey.
Other officers viewed the medal as a reminder of the high standards and expectations that come with being a police officer. WPI Appa, for example, saw the medal as a call to renewed commitment, requiring her to demonstrate even greater courage and perseverance in her work. This sentiment was echoed by DASP Ahswan Seesarah, who credited the police institution with helping him become a good officer.
The importance of building trust with the public was also emphasized during the ceremony. Chief Inspector Legrand stressed that the current generation of police officers must work to recreate a climate of trust, enabling citizens to feel comfortable approaching the police and allowing officers to effectively respond to their needs.
One recipient, Ajmal Bhojul, had a particularly memorable experience, as he was not only honored for his 18 years of service but also for his recent achievements in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Bhojul, a world champion in the sport, expressed his pride in being decorated by the Commissioner of Police for his international performances.
The President's Long Service and Good Conduct Medal ceremony served as a celebration of the recipients' dedication and service to the Mauritius Police Force. As the police force continues to evolve and face new challenges, the medal serves as a reminder of the importance of commitment, hard work, and community trust.
Key points
- 316 police officers in Mauritius receive President's Long Service and Good Conduct Medal for 18 years of service
- Commissioner of Police highlights need for police officers to adapt to new challenges such as cybercrime and organized crime
- Recipients express pride and gratitude for the recognition, with some emphasizing the importance of family support and community trust
