The 14 officers who were sworn into the Royal Turk and Caicos Islands Police Force on Monday, November 16, 2020. Photo: Loop News

The police in a statement reported the officers, who are trained in various speciality areas, have commenced orientation to begin their new careers in supporting the force "in keeping our communities safe."

The police said, as announced in March 2020, the additions include two superintendents of police from the United Kingdom: Lisa Mitcheson, who will be leading Crime and Public Protection; and Mr Martyn Ball who will head Specialist Operations.

The new officers include eight trained firearms police constables which will strengthen the tactical unit. Four officers will provide analytical and technical support for crime-solving, while one local female special constable will join the Marine Branch Unit, the police explained.

Botting said: “I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been given the incredible opportunity to lead the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force despite many challenges we face. We have done incredible work building capacity. This year alone, we have had 20 new police constables returning from training in the Bahamas and Barbados. These new additions will contribute to the building of our capability and capacity as we do everything we can to combat serious crime and protect the borders of the TCI.

“As Commissioner, I have always been a passionate advocate for the members of this organisation, making sure they have the resources they need to do their jobs. This would not have been made possible without the support by the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and the United Kingdom Government who are jointly funding this project. For that, I am grateful."

Botting said he believed the new officers would make a huge difference. 

"I wish them the best of luck in their new careers as they work to serve the communities of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

The police also reported local recruitment is currently underway and will be completed by the end of November. The new batch of more than 20 recruits will attend the official Police Training School in April 2021.