Lisala Lavemai (28) of Vaini was awarded the Baton of Honour during a graduation ceremony for Tonga Police Recruit Wing 48 on January 28, at the Police Headquarters.

Police Commissioner Stephen Caldwell presented the Certificates to 33 new probationary constables, that included 23 men and 10 young women.

The Commissioner, who is completing his contract this year, said that some of the Tongan Police Officers he had the privilege of working with in the last six-years, are the best he had seen.

He congratulated the new recruits and said although the world has changed the foundations of policing had not.

"We police with the consent of the public and earn their trust every day with our deeds. We prevent crime by working together with the people and hold law breakers to account. You are joining a professional organization. Follow, listen and learn from good police officers."

At the same time, the Tonga Police Mission Statement is “to earn the trust and confidence of the people of Tonga through our service to the community".

"You have a power of arrest to take someone into custody and deprive them of their liberty, do so with discretion, common sense and compassion but do not be afraid to use those powers, know the law, you are guardians of the law and act with integrity at all time. The law applies to all, high and low."

The Commissioner advised them to be honest and, most importantly, to be honest with themselves, know their strengths and weaknesses.

"Recognize your fundamental responsibility is to keep people safe. Be seen, be heard but listen. Be part of the community you serve and work alongside the people."

Commissioner Caldwell said that as he draws to the end of his 43-years police career, theirs begins.

He has served in the New Zealand Police, with a short time in the South Australia Police, Solomon Islands, East Timor and Bougainville, and now the Kingdom of Tonga.

"I now instruct you to commence that mission with strong hearts and confidence in your ability to do your duty."

Police Commissioner Stephen Caldwell was bestowed Patron to the Graduates of Wing 48.