St. Kitts Prime Minister tells nationals overseas of three-pronged strategy in crime battle
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS – St. Kitts and Nevis will implement a three-pronged strategy in its on-going battle against gang-related crime.
Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas also told nationals residing in the diaspora that cautious investment strategies embraced by the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party Administration have to date saved the twin-island Federation from the “trauma currently being experienced by many other nations around the world.”
Dr. Douglas, who has been in his message to nationals around the world noted that while tourism does constitute a major component of the local economy, providing jobs for thousands of its citizens and bringing revenue into the Treasury, “my government is on alert and devising strategies to mitigate any impact that the global crisis may have on prospective travellers to our country.” He promised to provide additional information in future discussions.
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He said that in an effort to deal with the “scourge” on gang-crime, his government have joined forces with international law enforcement agencies like the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and the Regional Security Services, “to deliver an assault against gangs.”
The Prime Minister, who is also Minister of National Security, noted that because gang violence is a societal problem demanding society-wide action, government convened a National Consultation on Crime on December 12, 2008.
“ There, I made it absolutely clear that every single individual, family unit and organisation in our country is going to have to do something different from this point forward….will have to think up or embrace some action….no matter how small….to help shatter the appeal of gang culture to susceptible Kittitian and Nevisian children – if we are to stand any chance of winning this life-and-death battle,” said Prime Minister Douglas in his message available on demand on YouTube, the St. Kitts-Nevis List and feelthevybes.com.
He said that the top brass of the Police Force, Defense Force, Coast Guard and Customs Department “are collaborating more intensely than ever before, in response to my clear order that criminals be confronted as if we are in a state of war.”
“ Present at the December Consultation on Crime, in an outstanding demonstration of patriotism, were leaders of every political party in the Federation; Medical and Bar Association executives; entertainment and media practitioners; church and school leaders; and security, youth, and business representatives. The entire nation, in other words, was standing as one,” said Dr. Douglas, who expressed confidence that the nation’s security forces and criminal justice system “will bring existing criminals to justice, but your and my behaviour, standards and involvement can prevent that constant creation of new criminals in our beloved country. “
Prime Minister Douglas told national in the diaspora they are an important part of the society and welcome their “insights” “involvement” and contribution.”
“And I ask you to join with us, as partners, in this most important national cause,” said Dr. Douglas.
