BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – AS more young people across the Federation find themselves entangled in the justice system due to crime and violence, concerns are growing that many are slipping through the cracks, leading to increased drug use.
Recent months have seen heightened discussions surrounding the discovery of psychedelic drugs in the Federation. The latest arrest occurred on March 13, when police apprehended Lennox Smith of Cayon in possession of methamphetamine (commonly known as Ecstasy).
The following day, Smith was formally charged with Possession of a Controlled Drug (Methamphetamine - Ecstasy) and Possession with Intent to Supply Methamphetamine (Ecstasy).
Leader of the People’s Action Movement (PAM), Natasha Grey-Brookes, has called for stricter monitoring of social events to prevent the distribution of such substances to young people.
““I think too many times a number of items slips through the crack so there needs to be more increased searches when we have different activities so as to basically bring it down in terms of the use of this particular drug, because it is very dangerous and sometimes persons don't understand the effect that it can have on them as a person individually,” Grey-Brookes told reporters at a press conference earlier this week.
Reports indicate that various psychedelic drugs continue to circulate in the Federation, with Ecstasy reportedly having an underground market.
Last year, SKNVibes News questioned the police about whether such drugs had infiltrated the school system. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Cromwell Henry responded that there was no evidence to support such claims.
"At this time, no drugs of this nature, including ecstasy, have been found in schools, nor have there been any specific incidents reported involving teenagers in connection with these substances. The police remain vigilant and collaborate closely with schools to ensure that our youth are protected from exposure to illicit drugs," DCP Henry stated.
Authorities have also confirmed that there is no evidence suggesting that these drugs are being manufactured within the Federation.
Grey-Brookes, while emphasizing the challenges associated with psychedelic drug use, reiterated the need for increased surveillance at public events.
"We are not saying that we want to invade people's private space but we want to protect our young people. We want to make sure that they are not harmed and so it is always good to go out and have a good time, but until we get this thing under control there needs to be an increase in terms of the searches and to try to help to protect our people," she added.
Meanwhile, PAM’s Deputy Leader, Lincoln David-Pelle, stressed the need for better resources for law enforcement officers. He highlighted that effective policing has significant economic benefits, which many may overlook.
"When you have reduced crime, a very low crime, businesses flourish and therefore also the police officers are not just to arrest people but you know unfortunately some persons see success of police in the amount of persons they arrested," David-Pelle explained.
However, concerns persist regarding low morale within the police force, an issue that David-Pelle believes continues to impact overall performance and effectiveness.
