Dana Malcolm
Staff Writer
Since the start of 2024, a rolling avalanche of robberies in the country has put residents on edge. Now the unknown robbers are staking out people’s homes following them home, which locals say is adding to the fear felt by law-abiding citizens.
A serious spike in robbery reports shared by the police was observed in March. Since the 8th of the month, police have confirmed back-to-back robberies, often with a new victim being hit several nights in a row.
On March 22nd police revealed three back-to-back attacks by armed men; one in the Lower Bight on March 21 around 9 p.m., where a man was robbed of his car and other valuables. Two more were recorded on March 22 at 1:56 and 3:28 a.m. respectively; the first in Kew Town where a man was followed home and robbed; and the second where a man was robbed at his home, both committed by four armed men.
On March 15 police again revealed that a man was robbed by two males in Kew Town after midnight and a woman robbed by four men less than two hours later.
On March 14 three armed men robbed a Crockpot kitchen on Leeward Highway. The day before that two armed men robbed Gabriel’s restaurant located along Airport Road around 9:38 pm.
On March 12 police confirmed the 10 a.m. robbery of a woman at a gaming lounge; that incident followed the March 11 holdup on another woman at gunpoint. Before both of those was a robbery at 2:45 a.m. the Friday prior when a man was accosted near Dock Yard by five armed men
“Sounds like a SAS unit needs a vacation” said one resident on the most recent robbery post shared by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police, highlighting the frequency of the reports.
With the increasing random hits, residents are antsy and some want more personal protective measures.
Head of Crime, Safeguarding and Public Protection Superintendent Dean Holden has advised, “In light of recent incidents in Providenciales, I wish to emphasize the importance of staying aware of your surroundings and taking the necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.
“If you believe you are being followed, please do not panic. Remain calm and drive to a well-lit, populated area or the nearest police station. It’s crucial to avoid stopping in isolated or poorly lit areas or driving home.
“Immediately dial 911 and, if possible, try to obtain a description of the vehicle following you and its license plate number. Above all, prioritise personal safety. I want to assure the public that the RTCIPF is actively monitoring the situation and remains committed to ensuring all citizens’ safety and security.”
Residents are asking, “So when are you guys going to legalize tasers? Pepper spray for public use?” One asked. A different resident took it even further “Why don’t they give law-abiding citizens the right to bear arms?” He questioned.
Others wanted more proactive measures like the removal of vegetation in which criminals are known to hide in wait for their victims.
At least one suspect has been held regarding stolen property, Demetrie Williams, 32, of South Caicos. He was remanded in custody following a court appearance on March 15 two days after he was allegedly caught handling stolen goods.
So far police have not managed to sniff out the armed thieves though it was said, the RTCIPF are actively investigating three armed robberies.
