Police commissioner Sonia Boyce sworn in with PM’s pledge of full backing

A historic appointment and rising public concern over crime converged on Friday as Prime Minister Mia Mottley vowed full government support for Sonia Boyce, the first woman to lead The Barbados Police Service, tasking her with modernising the force while reinforcing public safety and order.

Speaking after Friday’s swearing-in ceremony at State House, Mottley described the occasion as “a special moment in the life of a nation”, noting that The Barbados Police Service, established in 1835, has been “an enduring feature of this nation’s stability”.

Addressing Boyce directly, the prime minister praised her commitment and leadership:

“I read your comments… and those comments clearly reflect a person who has been steadfast in her commitment and clear in her purpose. We give thanks today as you enter this new phase of your service to the people of this nation.”

Acknowledging the country’s recent challenges with crime and public order, Mottley said she remained confident in Boyce’s ability to meet those challenges.

“I have confidence that we can make the distance in maintaining safety and order and peace in our country,” she said, adding that Boyce’s mission should be to “modernise the police service and bring The Barbados Police Service fully into the third decade of the 21st century”.

The prime minister also pledged continued government investment in policing, stressing that national security remains a top spending priority.

“The government will do all that is necessary, recognising that we made a commitment to this country that the first claim on public expenditure is security and law and order,” she said, noting that several major initiatives were already under way to improve both officers’ welfare and the institutional strength of the police service.

Mottley also urged greater attention to everyday acts of disorder, warning that they gradually erode the fabric of society.

“There can be no opportunity for us to have a peaceful Barbados if there is disorder. Our focus must not only be on the large criminal acts, but also on the small acts of disorder and the small acts of uncivil behaviour.”

She ended by reaffirming the government’s commitment to working alongside law enforcement to “maintain a strong, peaceful, and ultimately prosperous Barbados”.

Acting President Jeffrey Gibson noted Boyce’s landmark appointment as the first woman to lead the police service in its 191-year existence:

“As the first female commissioner in the service’s 191-year history, your appointment represents far more than your personal achievement. It is a direct reflection of your extensive training, deep professional competence, and unwavering dedication to the citizens of Barbados.”

Boyce’s appointment demonstrated that “merit, discipline and integrity know no gender boundaries” and would serve as “a beacon of inspiration” for future generations of Barbadians to pursue leadership with confidence.