News
Navigating Gang Violence in TCI: A Call for Dialogue and Strategic Approaches
#TurksandCaicos, December 20, 2023 – Gang violence, a pervasive issue globally, has found an unwelcome home in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). As we confront this challenge, it is crucial to explore alternative approaches beyond traditional law enforcement measures.
This article delves into the complexities of gang violence in TCI and proposes strategic solutions.
Ed Forbes
Understanding the context is important. As a sophomore in college in the United States in the early 90s, I have vivid memories of the LA gang wars that dove a deep exploration into the roots of violence; never imagined that one day it would hit close to home.
TCI, is traditionally sheltered from such issues, however, now grapples with a surge in homegrown gang related activities.
Local law enforcement, not being exposed or unaccustomed to such levels of violence, confronts formidable homegrown gangs fueled by turf control and illicit trades.
This in itself presents a challenge in traditional approaches, and the department is facing difficulties in effectively curbing the violence.
Social Media also has a role to play, but rapid dissemination of information and photos getting out ahead of diplomacy and facts based, could interfere with police tactics, and create hysteria among citizens.
Granted, development brings about changes, nevertheless, it’s still shocking to me that a small island nation like TCI, which was built on strong Christian principles and values would become the center of attention on the world stage with similar stories like the LA gang wars.
For these same reasons, it’s incumbent upon law enforcement to take a more holistic approach and strategy with tackling gang violence.
Gangs, unlike politically driven armed groups in some third world countries, thrive in governance vacuums, necessitating a comprehensive approach. Engaging foreign gang experts and addressing underlying socio-economic factors becomes imperative.
Experts have determined that there are key components of negotiation, focusing on gang interests rather than issues, can emerge as a viable strategy. Factors like socio-political alienation, economic disparities, prestige, identity formation, and long exposure to violence could be the cause for such issues.
There is certainly an urgency for change, because, despite the concerted efforts by law enforcement, the current strategy isn’t effectively curbing gang violence. This is because it goes beyond just massive armed response.
Dialogue, negotiation and community policing supported by parental efforts can emerge as essential components.
Perhaps, police-gang negotiations, and reintegration of reformed criminals can emerge as potential strategies.
The potential risks of inaction or failure to adopt this perspective, risks fueling resentment, fostering an “us-vs-them” mentality, and pushing vulnerable youth toward gangs.
Recognizing the psychological root causes of gang violence is paramount for addressing this problem which poses a potential threat to TCI’s stability and tourism.
The Call to Action should encompass bridging divides, supporting law enforcement, and denouncing violence collectively which can help to safeguard our communities.
Albeit this will be hard to become a reality if the only time our young men are interacting with the police is when they
are responding to a crime.
On the surface, gang violence presents a seemingly intractable problem for societies. For one, it appears to be contained in disenfranchised and underserved communities like Kew Town, Five Cays, and Dock Yard.
Don’t be misled, this is because there is no obvious means for those communities to escape the cycle of violence. Even if shanty towns are demolished, it will only spread into other towns and communities.
The more gang activities become entrenched in societal norms, the less likely it will be for any authority to eradicate them by force.
It is imperative for every individual, community, and institution to stand with law enforcement partners in this critical time.
How do we do this?
If you see something, say something, get involved beyond postings on social media platforms and turn those words into deeds.
We must make every effort to unravel the complexities and mitigate the impact of this clear and present danger to the islands. Not only will law enforcement be in a better position to disrupt their activities but dismantle them.
In conclusion, navigating gang violence in TCI requires a multifaceted and strategic approach. This can be accomplished by embracing dialogue, negotiation, and genuine community involvement.
Ed Forbes
Concerned TCI Citizen
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – May 14th, 2024 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Government and Molo Hotel Group reached a pivotal juncture on Monday, May 13th, 2024, with the ceremonial signing of a development agreement at the Premier’s Office on Providenciales. The agreement, which received official Cabinet approval on March 13th, 2024, signifies a steadfast commitment to advancing the economic landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Molo Hotel Group is a family-owned business, renowned for its distinguished portfolio of high-quality hotels worldwide. The
development initiative encompasses the construction of three distinct IHG branded hotels: InterContinental Turks and Caicos, Kimpton Turks and Caicos and Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos. Scheduled for completion by 2027, each resort boasts a distinctive design from luxury to laidback sophistication spanning across the shores of Grace Bay Beach.
Kimpton Turks and Caicos – an epitome of luxury lifestyle living, will feature 192 guest rooms including three outdoor pools, a luxury spa and a fitness center. Additionally, seven dining options ranging from a beachfront restaurant to a rooftop bar.
Adjacent to the Kimpton, InterContinental Turks and Caicos will offer 59 classic luxury suites with panoramic ocean views. Mirroring its counterpart, this resort will offer an array of dining options and upscale facilities.
Steps away from the Intercontinental and Kimpton resorts, Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos will embrace a sense of community and contemporary elegance, offering 56 bedrooms. The resort will feature an onsite restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor pool, and fitness room.
Beyond the realm of hospitality, this development agreement underscores the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing employment opportunities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Molo is partnering with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) to actively promote hospitality as a career choice and support in developing training programs, career fairs, seminars, workshops, and events to raise awareness about hospitality careers. Molo has committed to provide employment and apprentice opportunities to TCICC students and provide mentoring and practical on property training to students.
The signing event was graced by Hon. Charles Washington Missick, Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Łukasz and Marcin Slominski, Owners of Molo, Ross Morrow, Managing Director Molo, Arik Kono, Vice President Upscale Development for IHG, Dr. Candice Williams, President and CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Angela Musgrove, InvestTCI CEO, Dr. Barbara Ambrister, Chairperson of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Dr. Delores Stapleton- Harris, Vice President of Academic, Vocational and Student Affairs for the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Mr. Kevin Baxter, Dean of Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) and Sheryl McLaughlin, InvestTCI Investment Services Executive.
Commenting on the development agreement, Premier, Hon. Misick, stated “The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing of
IHG/Molo Hotels is a significant step towards a sustainable future for hospitality in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Three hotels, Kimpton, Intercontinental, and Hotel Indigo, will be introduced, enhancing our tourism product and creating employment opportunities.”
He further added, “Partnerships with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission are underway, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to developing human capital and elevating tourism offerings. This project will bring economic growth, embrace local talent, and enrich our economy.”
Additionally, Mrs. Angela Musgrove, CEO of Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, emphasized “This collaboration confirms our commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity within our country. We have worked closely with Molo Hotel Group, and we are confident that this transformative project will further position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier destination for travel and investment. Much to our delight, it will also provide opportunities for engagement with our Community College and small business community.”
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands, operating through its primary Investment Promotion
Agency, Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, remains committed to attracting and facilitating Foreign Direct Investments to the country by providing a comprehensive suite of services. Through strategic initiatives and targeted promotion, the agency catalyzes sustainable development, driving innovation and small business opportunities across various sectors of the economy.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – Detectives of the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force have
charged a man who allegedly stole a vehicle.
The accused, DANVANTE BRISCO, 30, of Kew Town, Providenciales, was charged with:
- One Count: Robbery
- One Count: Taking Motor Vehicle Without Authority
- One Count: Using Offensive Weapon to cause fear
Mr. BRISCO appeared in court today (May 13 ) and was granted bail of $7500.00 with one surety.
The matter was adjourned to July 05 for a Sufficiency Hearing.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – A 20-year-old Dock Yard male appeared in court today (May 13th) charged with a series of firearm-related offences.
The accused, JAMES SIMON, was denied bail and remanded into custody pending a Sufficiency Hearing scheduled for July 05th, 2024.
Mr. SIMON faces the following charges:
- One Count: Robbery;
- One Count: Gang Membership
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm for the Benefit of a Gang
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition for the Benefit of a Gang.
The charges against Mr. Simon followed investigations by officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force into a robbery at the parking lot of a Casino where three males robbed a victim.
Additionally, Mr. Simon is charged with the following offences, having been arrested on May 02nd, 2024, along South Dock Road.
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition
- One Count: Unlawful Entry
Officers also charged a teenage minor who was in the company of Mr. Simon on May 02nd with One Count of UNLAWFUL ENTRY.
The accused, seventeen and from Kew Town, Providenciales, pleaded guilty and will be sentenced on May 20th.
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