By Spokesman Newsroom
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 25th July 2024) – In an address to the nation on Wednesday 24th July 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr. Terrance Drew spoke about expanding CCTV (Closed-circuit televisions) infrastructure island-wide in the near future as part of the government’s crime fighting strategies.
“I pledged [in my last address] that there would be expansion of the CCTV infrastructure islandwide and other evidence-gathering capabilities. We continue to build out our CCTV infrastructure, which has been one of the most impactful tools in acquiring evidence used in investigation and charging those accused of crimes.
In short order, the entire island will be covered with CCTV.” He touched on the seriousness of gang violence as he recounted the tragic loss of life due to crime within the past months. “Thus far in 2024, we have lost 19 souls, all our friends, family members, and neighbors to violence,” he expressed.
“In the past five days alone, we lost three of our citizens to gun violence. On behalf of the government, the people of this federation, and my family, I express our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the victims as you grieve.” The Prime Minister urged the nation to recognize the severity of the issue, stating, “Every homicide is one too many.
Remember, every life is precious. We cannot become numb to any violent crime.” He reiterated the administration’s commitment to justice for the victims and their families. “Rest assured that this administration will do everything it can to bring justice for your families.” PM Drew called for a shift in societal response to crime, indicating that there is a growing gang problem that must be addressed.
“Of those 19 persons killed this year, the intelligence I have received suggests that two-thirds of those homicides were as a result of gang violence and reprisals. I want that statistic to sink in. We have a serious gang problem in our society.” He pledged measures to combat this issue, including regular vehicular checks and searches, aimed at dismantling criminal activity.
“Let it be known, the National Security Council has agreed to a drastic change in suppression activities,” he declared. Additionally, he reported that work is ongoing in various aspects of national security. He unveiled updates on the administration’s commitment to bolster national security budgets, increase police presence, and improve intelligence capabilities.
“When I took office, the annual budget for the Ministry of National Security was $65.6 million. We increased the national security budget to $74.6 million in 2023 and $79.3 million in 2024,” he noted. He highlighted that such funding has facilitated the purchase of additional vehicles, procurement of drones for surveillance, and the establishment of new police and detection units.
Drew also spoke about the government’s legislative efforts, such as the implementation of the Firearm Amendment Act in 2024, increasing penalties for those caught with illegal firearms. “Persons in possession of illegal firearms and ammunition can serve up to 40 years in prison and be fined up to $500,000,” he explained.
The National Security Minister called for cooperation from the public in combating crime. “I therefore appeal to the general public for your patience, understanding, and cooperation as we do what is necessary to arrest the scourge of gangsterism and violent crime,” he urged.
