The spate of gun violence in the last 6 days has prompted another sharp response from the government.
At a press briefing yesterday, specifically convened for to address the spate of recent gun violence, Acting Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire had tough words for the “merchants of death”. Hilaire admitted that while crime has taken a different posture, the government will make available all the necessary resources to the Royal St. Lucia Police Force {RSLPF} while not meddling in their day-to-day operations. “We’ve said to the police, the principal agency that has to go out there in the trenches, in the fields, on the blocks and throughout St. Lucia to fight crime, that they have to total and absolute support of the government of St. Lucia to do whatever in necessary, with the law to curb these continuing incidences of crime.”
Dr Hillaire went on to clarify that the support was not restricted to tangible resources but includes legislation where necessary and when requested. The Acting Prime Minister, who was flanked by Crime Prevention Minister Jeremiah Norbert, proceeded to explain that his government has added new vehicles, new recruits, personal equipment and new legislation but stands ready to provide even more upon request from the leadership of the RSLPF. “So now we expect that the police will demonstrate that level of commitment and dedication and increase activity. And the police has been doing a fantastic job so far especially in the recovery of firearms and ammunitions. They also, from the briefings they have been giving us, showed us that they have made headway in solving some of the incidents that have taken place. St. Lucians are asking for more and we are asking for more.”
The Acting Prime Minister also made it clear that the fight against crime cannot be achieved solely by the RSLPF. He called on the public to join the fight to curb violent crimes. He reiterated that the RSLPF will intensify their efforts while the government will continue to support their efforts, and the only missing link in the chain is the public support for on-the-job police officers. Hilaire was adamant that a huge part of the problem is the accomplices and beneficiaries of the criminal elements and their willingness to look away or aid in the execution of unlawful activity locally.
Gun related killings over the last 6 days have exceeded figures for a similar period in recent times.