The National Security Council (NSC) is proposing life imprisonment for arsonists as the authorities search for a solution to thwart the wanton infernal attacks on historical and other sites on Grand Turk.
The NSC co-chaired by His Excellency Governor Nigel Dakin and Premier Hon. Washington Misick, reviewed the custodial sentencing and considered life imprisonment as a proportionate penalty for the evil act.
The National Security Council also acknowledged the community concerns and fears surrounding the attacks, which also included private homes, businesses, and government property.
During the meeting, representatives of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) resolved to mitigate future arson attacks by equipping crimefighters with the necessary resources, while fostering police-to-public communication, also emphasizing the need for public support for the police.
The NSC signed off on a strategic review of fire-fighting capability not only on Grand Turk, but the wider Turks and Caicos Islands. The agreed decision, proposed, among things, to include an increase in the number of fire-fighters, better positioned fire-fighting resources on Grand Turk, including the provision of water, future recruitment, training, development and engagement with the public around fire safety and prevention.
Consideration of employing a 24-hour security guard network for buildings of national significance was also covered at the meeting.
Opposition Leader Hon. Edwin Astwood aired his concerns regarding the fire threat situation on the island, which was noted and agreed by the Council.
Also in attendance were H.E. the Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Deputy Premier Hon. E. Jay Saunders, Attorney General Hon. Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Otis Morris, Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting and other government technocrats.