Police Commissioner Addresses Crime Surge, Calls for Public Cooperation in Combating Illegal Firearms
The police are expressing concern about the prevalence of crime within the country, with Police Commissioner Atlee Rodney assuring the public that law enforcement will do its very best to address the situation.
In a state media interview, he said that in the early part of the year, there were some indications of a spike in incidents.
“We conducted quite a few operations, removed several firearms from the streets, and then it trended downwards. Recently, we have seen some other cases arising. We are very vigilant in some cases, taking keen note of the situation, and implementing drastic measures to address it,” the top cop said.
“We are quite mindful of the porous borders we have. Yes, there are means for illegal firearms to come in through illegal ports, but we also face situations where they enter through the normal traditional ports, and we have to continue addressing that.
“So far this year, we have removed about 40 firearms from the streets. This indicates that even if we tighten the systems at the traditional ports, there are still other means for them to come in,” Rodney said.
He also emphasized the importance of public cooperation to keep illegal firearms off the streets, saying that support from the public is crucial.
This story was first published by Antigua News on July 17, 2024: antigua.news/2024/07/17/police-commissioner-addresses-crime-surge-calls-for-public-cooperation-in-combating-illegal-firearms. © 2024 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Four-Country CARICOM Free Movement Scheme Reports 939 Processed as Antigua Maintains Separate Conditions for TCN Transfers
Antigua and Barbuda remains outside the four-country scheme, while proposing strict limits and safeguards for temporary transfers of third-country nationals from the US.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Elderly Man Found Dead Inside Ovals Home
Police are investigating after an elderly man was discovered unresponsive at his home in Ovals on Wednesday morning, with no indication of foul play at this stage.
By Cory Wayland
WATCH: Taxi Operators Call for Proper Policing as Minister Freeland Reviews Concerns in St. John’s
Taxi association representatives say vehicles occupying designated spaces and soliciting cruise passengers are affecting operations around Heritage Quay.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
OPINION: The World Must Rise Up With A Single Voice Against All Forms Of Terrorism
Cuban Ambassador Sergio Martinez Gonzalez calls for a united global stand against terrorism as CARICOM and Cuba commemorate the victims of the 1976 Cubana Airlines bombing and reaffirm their opposition to terrorism in all its forms.
By Editorial Staff
Comments
Be the first to comment.