Thousands of revellers were able to participate in J’ouvert 2018-2019 which kicked off at 4 a.m. on Wednesday, December 26, 2018. As with previous years, majority of the persons who turned out enjoyed themselves, whether it was from the sidelines or as a member of one of several troupes that were registered with the Carnival Committee. The Police High Command would like to commend all the persons who were able to revel in a peaceful and responsible manner.
Unfortunately, due to several incidents that occurred during J’ouvert, a decision was made in the interest of public safety to restrict the event to 10 a.m. The Police are aware that a number of the incidents were gang-related and the others were fights that occurred during the street jam. The Police condemns the use of bottles and stones as missiles during the J’ouvert Jam which resulted in injury to several persons, including two Police Officers. Fortunately, none of the injuries were life threatening.
With regard to the matters involving the Police Officers, the High Command has learned that both were injured while attempting to make an arrest during separate incidents. In one matter, two persons suffered injuries when an Officer’s firearm discharged after he fell while trying to apprehend an assailant. The two females suffered injuries to the legs as a result. The women, along with the Police Officer, received treatment at the JNF Hospital and were all discharged. The second Officer is warded at the hospital after he too was attacked trying to make an arrest during another incident.
Arising out of these incidents some sixty-four (64) persons were taken into custody and are assisting Police with their investigations. The Police are asking anyone with information regarding the incidents that took place Wednesday morning to contact the Basseterre Police Station by dialling 465-2241.
Several other street activities are scheduled to take place over the coming days. The Police are making an appeal to all residents and citizens to comply with the laws of the land and to take direction from members of the various security agencies. The Police have a zero-tolerance policy for any acts of violence. Carnival is a time meant for residents and visitors to have fun. They have a right to do so in a peaceful manner. Any person found to be disrupting that peace will meet with the full extent of the law. Vendors and business operators are also reminded that drinks are not to be sold in glass bottles. The Police are urging members of the public to report suspicious activity to the Police by calling the Crime Hotline 707.