According to a statement, Government has immediately instituted a range of measures, among them, increasing police visibility across the Turks and Caicos Islands, expanding collaboration within security forces regionally and internationally, assigning rapid response teams to affected areas and focusing the force’s efforts on deterring criminal activities, identifying those responsible for crime.
Additionally, the Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has enlisted 24 police officers from The Royal Bahamas Police Force to directly support the specialist Firearms and Response Units. Also, with support from the United Kingdom, a 24-person anti-gang squad, made up of specialist UK has been assembled.
The government further stated that detectives to tackle gang violence, drawing on sophisticated intelligence resources and UK Forensic laboratories has been set-up.
Additionally, the followings measures are being taken to accelerate investment in the nation’s security and police systems, including:
An expansion of CCTV coverage and tools for investigating criminal activity; Iimproved police equipment, and new vehicles for the police force and other security bodies;
· Bolstering maritime security by enhancing the monitoring of surrounding seas and deepening partnership with the US and Bahamas;
· Partnering with the UK to leverage sophisticated maritime surveillance aircraft;
· Expanding the exchange of intelligence with other Caribbean nations;
· Meeting with residents, business owners and regular visitors to discuss safety concerns; and
· Find ways to collaboratively strengthen the security of the nation.
“As part of this effort, on Monday, October 10th, Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting will update TCI on law enforcement matters. Governor Nigel Dakin will share remarks on Tuesday, October 11th
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“While the Turks and Caicos Islands takes pride in its long-running legacy of safety for residents and visitors, the nation’s primary goal is keeping everyone on the island safe and at ease,” A statement from FGS Global – the government media arm said on Monday.
The statement added: “The country also continues to mourn those who tragically lost their lives due to recent gang-related activity. The country’s leaders share their deepest sympathies with the victims’ loved ones and are working with local organizations to provide assistance to the families.
“The Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force requests that any TCI resident or visitor who has information about criminal incidents, or who has witnessed dangerous behavior on the islands, contact the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force or Crime Stoppers immediately at +18008477.”
The statement also quoted Premier Hon. Washington Misick as saying: “The Government extends its gratitude to the police for their courage in the face of this new challenge and thanks our regional neighbours and those from other countries who are supporting this critical effort,”
“To put an end to criminal activity, I am encouraging collaboration between our residents, the Government and police force, resorts and hotels, and visitors alike. Through collective, coordinated efforts, the Turks and Caicos Islands will remain a safe and comfortable place to live and visit.”