More than 100 law-enforcement officers, members of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis High Command and representatives of the local media corps attended a ‘thanksgiving ceremony’ held on the ACP’s behalf at the Police Headquarters’ Recreation Room.
Words of commendation were expressed by some of the many persons who have been touched by Liburd’s professionalism and dedication to his duties, as one of the individuals charged with securing the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis.
“Can I say that on a personal level, I am sorry that he is leaving? Yes, from an organisational standpoint, certainly we miss him and we will miss him and we regret that he is leaving…” Commissioner of Police (Ag) Stafford Liburd expressed to the gathering.
He explained that he had mixed feelings about Liburd’s departure but noted that he is somewhat comforted by the outgoing ACP’s commitment in continuing to ensure that the Federation remains a safe place to live and visit.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ag) Ian Queeley, recalling the fond memories which he shared with Liburd, explained that a high bar was set for him, which he strived to surpass.
Queeley said he remembers collaborating with Liburd, to assist the Federation in dealing with issues relative to drugs in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He said his fearless and relentless approach to his duties was one of the attributes which stuck with him.
The acting ACP also noted that when he became a gazetted officer, ACP Liburd was the only member of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police force who was senior to him and who welcomed him to the ‘ranks’ and explained to him the keys to effective management. He explained that to this day, he still has that card.
Others who spoke at the ceremony included the Minister of National Security Sam Condor, Head of the Criminal Investigations Department, Inspector Belgrove, Toni Frederick of the Media Association of St. Kitts Nevis and Force Chaplin, Pastor Leroy Benjamin.
All spoke glowingly of the ACP describing him as industrious, insightful, supportive, assertive, dedicated, helpful and resourceful among other things.
In response, Liburd expressed his gratitude to those who had a hand in his development in the police force and also those who uttered words of commendation.
“I started this journey 1978 and I believe it is time to end…I am very thankful to anyone who had anything whatsoever to do with my development in the police and my advancement there…I am grateful for all that was said here this morning…
“Just as I said when I wrote my retirement letter…I will continue to do whatever I can to fight crime in St. Kitts Nevis…So I may not be in the system but I will still be part of the system…I have already offered my service free of charge to do part of the lecturing at the training school. I would have a lot more time than I have now and if the powers at the Training School and others allow me to be there, no problem.
“Salam, I will be departing,” he concluded.
MiyVue understands that a similar ceremony was held in Nevis for the Assistant Commissioner earlier this week.
Enlisted in the service on 14th June 1978, MiyVue understands that when his retirement would have taken effect, he would have serve 33 years in the force.
As part of his send-off package, the ACP was presented with gifts inclusive of a Blackberry Bold 9700, compliments LIME.