Police Town Hall Meetings resume

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - On Wednesday, July 16, 2008, the Royal St. Christopher-Nevis Police Force conducted another in its series of town hall meetings around the island.

The meeting was held at the St. Peters Community Center and was attended by approximately 35 to 40 persons from that community. The panel included the High Command of the Police Force, Parliamentary Representative for the area, Hon. Cedric Liburd and opposition candidate Mr. Eugene Hamilton.

The meeting was a success as it met its objectives which were:
i. To reassure the public that crime is not out of control;
ii. To provide a forum to interact with the community;
iii. To get feedback from the community on Police’s performance in that community; and
iv. To get suggestions for improvement in the service to the community.

The Commissioner of Police in his opening remarks outlined some of the initiatives that the Police have undertaken to address the crime problem. He mentioned the introduction of a 24-hour patrol unit, a crime response team in district ‘B’, a bicycle patrol in Basseterre, regular use of the Canine Unit at our ports and other initiatives which are not visible to the public. He highlighted some of the successes that these initiatives have borne.

These are:
i. The issuing of over 1400 traffic tickets;
ii. The confiscation of 23 illegal firearms;
iii. The seizure of large quantities of marijuana;
iv. An overall reduction in crime generally; and
v. Improved relationship with the public.

Representatives of the political parties both expressed support for the Police’s initiatives and urged the community to lend their support as well, as crime is the responsibility of everyone.

Residents were generally satisfied with the management of the Stapleton Police Station, but expressed some concerns about response time and confidentiality. Residents also expressed their disgust about the loud playing of vulgar and obscene music in the community by inconsiderate neighbors, and solicited the Police assistance in curbing this practice.

The Police High Command promised to do all within its powers to address the concerns raised and to continue to serve the communities within the Federation to ensure a peaceful and tranquil environment. ~~Adz:Right~~