Basseterre, St. Kitts, July 20, 2023 (SKNIS): Improved surveillance at ports of entry and enhanced border patrols will be undertaken by law enforcement in St. Kitts and Nevis to combat firearm trafficking.
On Wednesday’s (July 19) edition of the radio and television programme InFocus, Commissioner of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, James Sutton, noted that the recent spike in gun-related crimes has been particularly troubling for the nation and the police.
“We have seen where a number of guns come through our local ports, so we intend to improve in (detection) by the use of K-9 dogs, handheld x-ray machines, and through better local intelligence,” Commissioner Sutton stated.
Various security agencies such as His Majesty’s Customs and Excise Department as well as the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force, will collaborate closely with the police to enhance surveillance and execute joint operations where necessary.
“It is important to use whatever resources we have,” the commissioner of police stated, noting that the porous borders and geographic proximity of the island create an attractive mix for criminal elements.
“We do a lot of fishing. A number of persons can move from one of the islands within an hour, half an hour unknown to the police, so we are seeking public assistance when they see something of an abnormal nature or suspicious to share with the police,” said Commissioner Sutton.
At a press conference earlier this month, Prime Minister and Minister of National Security the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew noted that a patrol boat as well as an onshore radar system to detect vessels entering the territorial waters of St. Kitts and Nevis will be acquired to help reduce the transhipment of drugs and guns.
