RTCIPF Launches Highway Patrol Pilot to Boost Road Safety and Visibility

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has launched a new Highway Patrol Pilot Initiative aimed at reducing traffic accidents, enhancing public safety and increasing police visibility across the territory.

Governor for the Turks and Caicos Islands Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam (fourth from left), Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams (third from right), and Premier Hon. Washington Misick (fourth from right), take a snap with Commissioner of Police (right), Fitz Bailey and his executive team in front of a newly-acquired police vehicles, recently at the Police Headquarters in Providenciales.

Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey announced the initiative during a press briefing on Tuesday at Police Headquarters in Providenciales. He said the programme, launched on Friday, November 14, is intended to support safer travel throughout the islands.

"This program is designed to increase police visibility, enhance public safety, and reduce road traffic accidents and fatalities," Bailey said. "Enforcement visibility and safety enhancement will protect lives and property and ensure that residents and visitors can travel across our islands with confidence and peace of mind."

Bailey expressed appreciation to the Governor and the Government for continued investment in the force, noting the recent addition of 10 new vehicles to the police fleet.

"The recent acquisition of 10 new vehicles will significantly enhance our operational effectiveness and strengthen our ability to respond swiftly to crime and violence, ensuring better service to the public," he said.

The RTCPF has also expanded its maritime capabilities with two newly acquired jet-drive vessels, with additional marine assets currently being procured.

"These resources are critical to improving our reach and resilience across land and our maritime domain," Bailey said.

He added that the force’s recruitment drive remains active, with staffing levels expected to increase in the coming months.

"All these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to make the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force a self-sufficient institution, fostering knowledge transfer and sustainable growth," he said.

CHRISTMAS CRIME PREVENTION PLAN

As the holiday season approaches, Bailey announced the launch of the Christmas Crime Prevention Plan, Operation Shepherd, beginning Friday, November 21, 2025. The initiative will increase police presence and visibility in commercial zones during the festive period, with all officers called to be available for deployment.

"Our goal is simple: to create an environment where everyone can enjoy this season of cheer and giving in safety and peace," he said. He added that the force has coordinated joint security efforts with major security companies and private sector stakeholders.

With the peak tourism period nearing, Bailey said policing efforts will also be strengthened in business districts and nightlife zones.

"I am making a commitment to create a secure, enjoyable nightlife experience that leaves every citizen, resident and visitor feeling confident and welcomed," he said.

Between January 1 and October 31, 2025, police recorded 43 incidents involving tourists: 18 offences against the person, 23 property-related crimes involving unattended items, and two offences against the state. Bailey noted that these incidents represent a very small percentage of the approximately two million annual visitors to the islands.

"These reports represent approximately 0.00215 percent of tourists being victims of crime," he explained. "If we focus only on incidents where a person was likely present, that figure drops to 0.0009 percent."

Bailey said the force remains committed to building trust and long-term institutional improvement.

"Our transformational journey is about building a police force that stands the test of time; professional, accountable and deeply connected to the people it serves," he said. "With unity and shared purpose, we will create a safer tomorrow for all who call these islands home."

He closed by thanking teams across the organisation including operations, serious crime, marine, human trafficking, financial crime, tactical units, civilian staff, community safety and media relations.