After nearly four decades of service, Women Special Police Constable (WSPC #26) Justina Belas, one of the longest-serving members of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF), has retired.
At 26 years old, Belas joined the force on April 15, 1987 as a traffic warden. She spent about 21 years in the Traffic Department before being upgraded to Women Special Police Constable and transferred to the Immigration Department for a year.
She later worked in the Police Control Room, at the front desk as a receptionist. She was later sent to Beat and Patrol at the Central Police Station and then the Custody Suite at the courthouse as an orderly, and finally to the Babonneau Police Station, where she completed her service.
Reflecting on her journey, Belas described her work as rewarding yet demanding.
“It was very challenging to become a police officer; you have to be tough because you are meeting all types of persons on the road,” she said, noting the guidance of mentors who helped her through the years.
She spent 21 years in the Traffic Department before advancing to Women Special Police Constable, later serving in various roles across the force. Of all her assignments, she particularly enjoyed her time in the control room.
“I loved being a police; you get a lot of respect. I enjoyed… calling the outstations… it was a job I really enjoyed doing,” she recalled.
After 38 years and four months of service, Belas is now embracing retirement, though she admits adjusting to the slower pace has been a challenge.
“I’m getting tired of the house because all my life I have been working,” she explained. While she is open to continuing in the field, she prefers roles off the road.
“I can assist by doing some desk work…just to help.”
On the pressing issue of crime, Belas expressed concern about current trends.
“In my time, the crime was not that serious, but now it is getting out of hand,” she observed. She believes stronger measures are necessary and urges the government to act.
Her advice to the government also includes making use of retired expertise.
“Employ more ex-police officers because they can help; they know what to do at the police force,” she suggested.
She also offered words of encouragement for anyone, especially women, considering the profession.
“If they want to join the force, they have to make sure they get the respect, and they need to take their work very seriously, and things will be alright,” she advised.
Two years ago, Belas was honoured with an award for her dedication and long service.
She is proud of her career and hopeful about the future of the RSLPF, noting “the work progression has been better because of training and more persons.”
Happy and healthy retirement.