The Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) on Grand Bahama held its annual church service over the weekend at Central Church of God.

In attendance was Minister of National Security, the Hon. Wayne Munroe who challenged officers who do not have courage, integrity and loyalty to exit the police force quietly and peacefully as soon as possible.

Munroe added, “people may say many things about you but your integrity is what you do and who you are.  And so I want to encourage you that renewal is about brushing off and brushing up the things that you have and not acquiring new things.”

The National Security minister also promised to be an advocate for the officers in getting needed resources to discharge their duties.

President of the Grand Bahama Christian Council, Rev. Kenneth Lewis was also in attendance at the service.  During his remarks he said, “I also wish to admonish you that a significant amount of trust has been deposited in you both as individuals and as an organization.  So I say to you discharge your duties in such a way that you do not lose the trust of us, the public you serve.”

Flanked by members of the RBPF leadership team, Commissioner of Police, Shanta Knowles spoke with reporters outside of the church about the importance of the service.  She said, “I believe that starting off in church certainly sends that message that our faith is in the Lord and we believe strongly that with him at our right hand we will not be shaken.  We will restore the good honour and name of our organization and of course we will work as hard as possible to bring peace to our streets and  of course allay the fear of crime.”

Knowles assumed leadership of the RBPF in early January at a handing over ceremony held at police headquarters in New Providence.  She is the first female to hold the post.

The church service was held under the theme Renewing Courage, Integrity and Loyalty.