Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre firmly condemned last weekend’s brazen shootings in Castries that resulted in civilian deaths and endangered the lives of many others.
Last Saturday, during a busy shopping period, gunmen unleashed violence in separate incidents, claiming the lives of two individuals and injuring several bystanders.
In response to the rampant gun violence plaguing the nation, PM Pierre emphasized that the Commissioner of Police (CoP) had presented a comprehensive “crime strategy” outlining decisive measures to tackle the crime crisis.
“On Saturday, August 16, three Saint Lucians were killed by gun violence, and more were injured. This senseless violence must end immediately. We will not allow the safety of our streets and communities to be compromised by those who show no respect for life,” the National Security Minister asserted at a pre-cabinet briefing.
He declared, “We are committed to breaking the cycle of violence, particularly that stemming from gang reprisals.”
The recent shootings began near the Jeremie Street taxi stand around 10:00 a.m., where Jamie Williams, 25, of Morne Du Don, was fatally shot. Stray bullets struck unsuspecting bystanders, triggering panic as people fled for safety.
Mere hours later, Takim James, known as “Tako” or “Tako Bell,” was also gunned down on Micoud Street in a daylight attack that sent crowds, including children, running in fear.
“To respond to Saturday’s events, I immediately convened an Emergency Meeting with the High Command of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force [RSLPF] to discuss actionable plans to restore safety to our streets and communities,” PM Pierre stated.
He stressed the urgent need for the swift arrest of those responsible for the weekend’s violence. “I am confident that the police are fully equipped to tackle the challenges posed by gang activity on our streets,” he asserted.
In light of Saturday’s incidents, PM Pierre announced that police operations would include increased visibility and round-the-clock surveillance in high-crime areas.
“We will implement robust measures to thwart the movement of criminals across the country,” he stated.
The Prime Minister urged the public to remain patient with law enforcement, acknowledging that “some level of inconvenience will be necessary to restore safety in our communities.”
In a compelling message, PM Pierre reinforced that the fight against crime demands collective action from all law-abiding citizens. “This is not the time for blame or politicization; ignoring this issue will jeopardize everyone’s well-being,” he cautioned.
“We will not allow a small number of reckless individuals to jeopardize the safety and stability of our nation. Together, we will restore security—law enforcement will take all necessary action to regain control of our streets,” he declared.
He highlighted that with the implementation of stricter gun laws, a legislative framework is now in place to ensure that anyone found in illegal possession of firearms, as well as those who traffic them, will face immediate justice.
Prime Minister Pierre concluded with a strong statement, saying, “To those who bring illegal guns and violence into our communities, you will not be allowed to terrorize our people without consequence. The police will ensure that you cannot act with impunity. You will be found, your networks will be dismantled, and you will face the full force of the law.”