The recent incidents of crime within the communities of Jacmel and Marigot, remain an area of concern for the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force.
There have been recorded homicides, non-fatal shootings, robberies and other violent reports of late, which have forced a review of the crime prevention and reduction strategy in this area.
The RSLPF embarked on an initiative where a team comprising of professionals in various areas, including Social Services, the medical fraternity, and community groups/ leaders, would visit affected parties, as well as vulnerable locations in order to provide support and advice on measures to reduce the occurrence of crime. Other measures included increased patrols, vehicular and foot, alongside searches of targeted locations.
These measures bore fruit, however, a more comprehensive approach is currently being rolled out, which would involve more significant community involvement and empowerment. It is noteworthy that community members feel intimated by the criminal elements and the work to reduce the fear of crime is an arduous one, but one that we remain resolute in achieving.
We wish to remind persons that there are anonymous ways of providing information to the Police, such as the Crime Hotline (45-CRIME), or any police officer or other professional who one trusts may be utilised to convey information to the relevant authorities.
The RSLPF thanks all the individuals who have placed their trust in our membership, and for those who possess reservations, we will continue to strive to earn your trust, as without a partnership with the community, effective policing is near impossible.