The Cerro Largo Police Headquarters celebrated its 195 years of creation, almost two centuries at the service of order
On October 8, the Cerro Largo Police Headquarters commemorated a new anniversary of its foundation, marking 195 years since its creation in 1830, by order of the then President of the Republic, Fructuoso Rivera, who acted together with the Minister of the Interior of the time, Dr. Juan Francisco Giró.
That decree, signed just a few months after the Oath of the Constitution, gave rise to one of the oldest institutions in the country, in charge since then of ensuring public order, the protection of the inhabitants and compliance with the laws in the departmental territory.
The first political and police chief appointed to Cerro Largo was Don Florencio Olivera, a figure who marked the beginning of an extensive institutional history. Since then, and over almost two centuries, 61 chiefs have led the police force, adapting the function of the force to new times, but always maintaining the commitment to the safety of the population as its axis.
Currently, the Headquarters is under the command of Commissioner General (R) Gerardo Jorge, accompanied by Chief Commissioner Larry López, who serves as Deputy Headquarters, and Chief Commissioner Ramiro Argüello, responsible for the Executive Coordination Directorate. Under his leadership, the institution continues to strengthen its operational structure and deepen its policies of proximity to citizens.
The department of Cerro Largo is divided into Operational Zones that cover 16 police sections, each with its respective police station. These agencies are responsible for addressing security issues in their jurisdictions, articulating their work with the units specialized in Domestic and Gender Violence, which have played an increasingly relevant role in the prevention and attention to cases of vulnerability.
During the commemorative events held yesterday, the historical and social value of the Headquarters was highlighted as an institution that has accompanied the evolution of the department since its origins. From the first rural detachments, when the territory was still a frontier in formation, to the present, where police work is supported by technology, training and modern management strategies, the presence of law enforcement has been constant in the life of Cerro Largo.
Throughout these 195 years, the departmental Police has faced challenges of all kinds: from border conflicts and periods of political instability in the 19th century, to current challenges linked to citizen coexistence, road safety and the fight against organized crime. At each stage, the institution has been able to adapt, professionalize and reaffirm its mission of serving society.
In recent years, the current command has promoted a policy of openness towards the community, strengthening links with educational centers, social organizations, local authorities and the media. Progress has also been made in the incorporation of new technologies for information management, territorial control and emergency response, in coordination with the Ministry of the Interior.
In his message for the anniversary, the Chief of Police stressed the commitment of the personnel to the citizens and recognized the dedication of the officials in every corner of the department, both in the capital and in the most remote areas. “Being a police officer in Cerro Largo means serving, protecting and accompanying our people with respect and professionalism,” express. The date was also an occasion to remember those who left their mark on the institution, and to reaffirm the values that guide the police function: respect, the vocation to serve, ethics and the defense of life.
Almost two centuries after its creation, the Cerro Largo Police Headquarters continues to be a fundamental pillar in the structure of the State and a reference in the history of the department. Its permanence and adaptation to new times confirm the essential role it plays in the security, order and coexistence of the entire community.
