DOMINICA: UWP Calls for Urgent Action to Combat Gun Violence

TROUBLE MAKERS UPP HERE IS WHAT YOU KNOW WAS SAID BEFORE YOUR PRESS STATEMENT: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has announced the establishment of a dedicated firearms task force within the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF), aimed at identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting individuals involved in the possession, trafficking, and use of illegal firearms. The announcement was made during a press conference on Monday, following a series of troubling gun-related incidents across the country. Skerrit described the recent acts of violence as “brazen and reckless,” noting that they have disrupted public peace and shaken the sense of safety “we hold dear as a people.” “Upon my return to the country on Sunday, I convened an emergency meeting with law enforcement and security officials to thoroughly assess the situation and review the response to these incidents,” Skerrit stated. “Today, I am announcing a series of decisive and immediate measures to address the situation head on.” Chief among these measures is the creation of the Firearms Task Force, which will operate as a multi-agency unit. It will draw personnel and resources from the CDPF’s Criminal Investigation Department, Special Branch, K9 Unit, Customs and Excise Division, Dominica Coast Guard, and the National Joint Intelligence Center (NJIC). “The task force will adopt an aggressive and coordinated approach to stamp out illegal weapons from our streets,” Skerrit said. “And obviously, we will also coordinate and collaborate with regional agencies.” Effective immediately, the government has launched a confidential hotline—1-800-8477—for citizens to report illegal firearms or suspicious activity. Skerrit announced that individuals who provide information leading to the retrieval of illegal firearms or ammunition will receive a reward of $1,000 per firearm. “Your identity will be protected, your civic duty will be rewarded,” he assured. Additionally, a limited amnesty period has been declared for those in possession of illegal firearms or ammunition to surrender them to law enforcement without fear of prosecution. “This is a chance for citizens to do the right thing and avoid the full force of the law,” Skerrit said. The government will begin installing surveillance camera systems across Dominica, starting with the capital city of Roseau. Skerrit described this as a long-term investment in national security infrastructure and a deterrent to criminal activity. In the interim, police have been directed to increase foot and mobile patrols throughout Roseau and other areas. “We must restore confidence and ensure that law-abiding citizens can go about their lives without fear,” Skerrit emphasized. He also announced the engagement of a special prosecutor to handle major gun-related offenses and declared a ban on the use of tinted windows on all rented vehicles. “The police have advised that the majority of these crimes are carried out utilizing rented vehicles that are highly and heavily tinted,” he explained. Addressing those who may be involved in illegal firearm activity, Skerrit issued a stern warning: “We will find you, we will disarm you, and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law. Dominica is a peaceful nation and will not permit our streets to become battlegrounds.” He urged all citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement, and report wrongdoing. “This is our country and we all have a role to play in keeping it safe. Fighting crime must be seen as a societal responsibility.” Skerrit expressed gratitude to the men and women of the CDPF for their continued dedication to public safety. “You have the full support of this government once you carry out your duties within the confines of the constitution and laws of Dominica,” he said. “We will ensure that our country remains a safe place to live, work, and raise our families.” The Prime Minister issued a call for national unity: “Let us pledge today to put aside all differences and unite in the defense of our country by rejecting the culture of violence. Let us show care and concern for our fellow citizens, ensuring that we can all continue to enjoy the peace and tranquility of our Nature Island, Dominica.” He extended his condolences to the family of 26-year-old Jeanyves Bruno of Canefield, who died in a recent violent incident, and offered wishes for the full and swift recovery of those injured. “We will not allow individuals with illegal firearms to destabilize our communities, endanger lives, and undermine our national security,” Skerrit declared.

This is certainly not the government”s responsibility alone to address. It required an all hands on deck approach cause this is out if hand right now

Talk is cheap though. We need real solutions, not just statements. Let’s see if UWP or anyone actually brings a plan.

Someone has to care about the Dominicans. Haven’t heard Skerrit mouth at all

This is a crucial call to action, and I’m glad to see the UWP highlighting it. The recent rise in gun violence is deeply concerning for every Dominican, regardless of political affiliation. We need all hands on deck to address this, and hopefully, this will push for concrete strategies from all levels of government and community organizations. Our safety and peace of mind depend on it.