Turks and Caicos, 20th January, 2025 – The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) and the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have recently bolstered their strategic partnership through a specialized initiative to enhance operational capabilities in combating criminal activity across the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).
As part of this collaboration, RTCIPF Tactical Unit officers underwent advanced helicopter tactical rescue specialist training in the Bahamas. Delivered by DEA agents and their Tactical Helicopter Section, the training equipped officers with critical skills to deploy rapidly from helicopters, addressing challenges in TCI’s remote and difficult-to-access areas.
Following the intensive four-day program, Superintendent Jason James, head of the RTCIPF Tactical Unit, highlighted the initiative’s importance: “This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities. The helicopter fast rope specialist training has enabled our officers to respond swiftly and effectively to criminal threats, no matter where they arise across the TCI.
“The partnership with the DEA under Op BAT underscores our shared dedication to preventing and detecting criminal activities, including drug trafficking and organized crime. This effort strengthens the RTCIPF’s operational capacity and contributes to a robust, multi-agency approach to professional law enforcement.”
DEA representatives commended the RTCIPF’s proactive measures: “The Turks and Caicos Islands are a vital partner in the fight against transnational crime. Through this joint effort, we are enhancing the capability of local forces to protect their citizens and disrupt criminal networks.”
Acting Assistant Commissioner (Specialist Operations) Mat Newton also acknowledged the critical role of international partnerships: “As a Force, we remain dedicated to employing innovative strategies and fostering global alliances to ensure the islands’ safety. This is the first wave of training with the DEA and represents a key element of our fight against organized crime. Many thanks to the DEA for this opportunity.”
The strengthened partnership between the RTCIPF and the DEA marks a significant step in enhancing the TCI’s capacity to combat complex criminal activities and maintain public safety.
#PartnershipsMatter #safertci
Courtesy of RTCIPF Facebook