Assistant Superintendent of Police Frankie Thomas has brought regional recognition to Antigua and Barbuda after being named the recipient of the prestigious Amalgamated Security Services Limited (ASSL) Top Caribbean Community Policing Award.

Thomas, a senior officer within the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, received the award during an official ceremony hosted by the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP) and ASSL in Paramaribo, Suriname, on Tuesday.

The award recognises outstanding contributions to community policing and public engagement across the Caribbean region.

Speaking after the ceremony, ASP Thomas described the achievement as both emotional and humbling.

“I am elated, yet extremely humbled to be nominated for this high honour. I accept this in honour of my mom, who was my greatest supporter, and all those who have been supporting me throughout my career as a police officer,” he said.

Thomas used the opportunity to encourage stronger collaboration between law enforcement and the public, stressing that police and community partnerships remain essential to building trust and improving public safety.

He also urged fellow officers across Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean to continue embracing community policing initiatives as a vital part of modern law enforcement.

During his acceptance speech, Thomas thanked Almighty God for what he described as divine favour and expressed gratitude to both the ACCP and ASSL for selecting him for the regional honour.

He also acknowledged former Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney, now serving as Deputy Director of the Regional Security System (RSS), for his mentorship and support throughout the years.

The senior officer further extended thanks to the Police Administration, along with his colleagues and staff members, for their continued encouragement during his policing career.

The ASSL/ACCP Regional Recognition Awards Programme was established in 2015 through a partnership between the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police and Amalgamated Security Services Limited. The initiative highlights exceptional law enforcement officers across the Caribbean for excellence in policing, crime fighting, career advancement, and community engagement.

The programme includes three categories: Top Caribbean Community Policing Officer, Top Caribbean Crime Fighter, and Top Caribbean Career Move.

Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers has congratulated ASP Thomas on the achievement, commending his professionalism, dedication, and commitment to strengthening relationships between the police and the communities they serve.

Police officials say the award reflects positively on the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and underscores the growing impact of community-based policing efforts within the country.