GEORGETOWN - Assistant Commissioner of Police and Commander for Regional Division 9 Raphael Rose collapsed and died while on his way to the border town of Lethem on Thursday night.
In a statement, the Guyana Police Force said that Rose, who is believed to have suffered a heart attack, was widely respected for his dedicated service and strong leadership in the force over the years. It said he was preparing to hand over command and head off into retirement. “I pray that his family, friends, and colleagues find strength, comfort and courage during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” President Irfaan Ali said in a condolence to the family and colleagues of Rose.
Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken said that Rose’s driver said moments before his collapse, he cried out for chest pains. Hicken described Rose as a brother and an efficient officer and that the two worked together over the years and had recently held discussions with him. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) also extended its condolences to the commander’s family and the police force. The DPP said Commander Rose was a staunch supporter of the DPP’s Outreach Programme, noting that throughout the years, whenever there were outreaches in Region 9, he would always avail himself, his vehicles, and police to accompany officials of the chambers. (Jamaica Gleaner)