HER EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR DILEENI DANIEL-SELVARATNAM: STATEMENT ON RECENT FATAL INCIDENTS

#TurksandCaicos, July 27, 2023 – You will I am sure have heard about or seen the statements of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) regarding the two fatal shooting incidents that took place today – the first in the early hours of this morning, in the Grace Bay area and the second this afternoon in Kew Town.

My sincere sympathies are with the families and friends of those whose lives tragically have been lost today and in recent weeks through senseless acts of violence.

I share the concerns of those affected by these and recent incidents. I understand that there will be a heightened fear for the safety of our communities.  The police are actively investigating the respective incidents and undertaking a number of identified investigative leads.  Police patrols are in deployment in targeted areas across Providenciales, with an increased policing presence in the Grace Bay, Five Cays and Kew Town areas.

As Governor, I want to assure you that under the leadership of the Acting Commissioner, Rodney K. Adams, the RTCIPF is executing the full force of its investigative powers and remain determined in their efforts to bring those responsible to justice.  Working with the National Security Council, I am taking active ownership of the wider strategic response to ensure the threats to our safety and security are gripped through intelligence led interventions and enforcement action.

However, we cannot do this alone. Safer communities require continued and dedicated collaboration from each one of us to help reduce the room to operate for those who are seeking to commit crime.  Your assistance could be instrumental in advancing the police investigations and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.

I fully support the Acting Commissioner’s appeal for information.  If you have any information related to the incidents or believe you know a family member, a friend or a loved one that is vulnerable to associating with those involved in this activity or in possession of a dangerous weapon, say something. Speak to someone you trust or contact TCI Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to provide information anonymously and in confidence.  The information you know could save lives.