BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Traffic Department of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force this morning (Jul. 21) began removing derelict vehicles from the streets as part of its recently-adopted Six Point Plan to combat crime.
At about 8:30 a.m., officers of the Traffic Department, with the aid of a tow truck, went to several areas in and around Basseterre removing vehicles that were either in a state of disrepair or had been stationary for years.
SKNVibes understands that the operation took place at Mattingley Heights; New Road; Lower Monkey Hill; Manchester Avenue, Newtown; and Ponds Estate.
According to Acting Commissioner of Police (COP) Stafford Liburd, seven derelict vehicles were removed during the exercise.
In an interview with this publication, the Acting COP reminded of the Force’s rational behind the removal of the vehicles.
“It is part of our plan in having derelict vehicles and broken down vehicles removed from our streets and open areas, for they have been used by criminals to hide not only their weapons but also stolen items. Therefore, it is a concern. And also there is a concern where people can be inside these broken down vehicles and use them for other purposes, which include the use of drugs and planned attacks on persons passing by.”
He noted that the derelict vehicles also pose an environmental and health risk and act as impediments to the free flow of traffic.
It is preferred, the Acting COP explained, if the owners of these vehicles would have them removed, but, barring that “we will do our part and have them removed to ensure that we have a safer nation to live in”.
Liburd indicated that the exercise would continue tomorrow and it would focus on the Basseterre and surrounding areas, and would shortly move to the Conaree and Cayon areas before progressing to the other areas of the island.
