Crime

No guns, No bullets when travelling to the Caribbean; You could 10-25 Years in Prison

Published

6 months ago

May 2, 2024

Shanieka

Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer

Americans need to check their luggage for contraband including bullets before leaving home or expect long jail times and hefty fines that advice is coming from within their own country courtesy of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

In an article last updated February 14, 2024 the ATF said.

“While you’re packing your sunscreen and snorkel gear, don’t forget to check your luggage and clothing to remove all guns and ammunition. Many countries in the Caribbean do not allow possession of firearms or ammunition unless you have a local permit and, if arrested while traveling, the United States Embassy will not be able to secure your release.”

Recent arrests of visitors in the Turks and Caicos islands for ammunition possession have garnered international attention highlighting two interwoven issues: Americans may not be researching the laws of their vacation destinations well enough (despite encouragement from the ATF) and Caribbean countries may not be doing enough to publicize their laws.

One of the most publicized arrests, that of Ryan Watson, a father of two who entered the country with 4 bullets which he and his wife say was a mistake, is one example.

“We were trying to pack board shorts and flip flops,” Valerie Watson told CBS News. “Packing ammunition was not at all our intent.”

When Magnetic Media visited the official Turks and Caicos Tourism Website, listed at the bottom of the home page were entry requirements. A click on the entry requirements tab revealed in the very first paragraph, this statement:

“In order to bring in firearms of any type (including spear guns and Hawaiian slings), one must have written approval from the Commissioner of Police.”

It’s a clear warning, though it does not mention the mandatory 12 year sentence or the fact that ammunition possession carries the same penalty.

Regardless, it’s there for all potential visitors to see; In fact the Turks and Caicos’ warning is more forward facing than its nearest comparable neighbors who arguably have a much longer reach and more experience in tourism. Magnetic Media found it difficult to find any such warnings on the VisitJamaica or the Bahamas.com websites.

It’s a stark contrast to the ATF website which warns over and over “Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines”

“If you are arrested for gun trafficking abroad, you could be imprisoned, fined or both, and the State Department will not be able to secure your release”

Despite this many Americans continue to make the same mistake, with four such cases pending this year.

Increased diligence from firearm holders and an increased visibility of local laws could work in tandem to protect guests and the tourism industry Caribbean Countries rely on.

Simultaneously, others, arguably the loudest voices, are calling on the government to repeal the law and make provisions for those who may have had no intent to smuggle anything into the country.

Related Topics:#magneticmedia #tci #Travelling guns

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Crime

Five Cays Robbery

Published

4 days ago

October 11, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

***MEDIA RELEASE***

Turks and Caicos, October 11^th, 2024 – The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force wishes to inform the public that officers from the Serious Crime Unit are actively investigating an armed robbery that took place on the evening of Wednesday, October 9, 2024, in Five Cays, Providenciales.

Preliminary reports indicate that at approximately 9:32 pm, officers were dispatched to Granny Hill, where a male and female were victims of a robbery.

The suspects stole a silver 2008 Nissan Note hatchback, cash, and other valuables.

No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

Shortly after 5 pm yesterday (October 10), the vehicle was recovered in Five Cays.

The RT&CIPF is asking anyone with information on illegal firearms to contact the closest police station, 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to provide any information anonymously.

Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information.

Crime

Updated Statement – Five Cays Homicide

Published

4 days ago

October 11, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

***MEDIA RELEASE***

Turks and Caicos, October 11, 2024 – The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has identified 28-year-old EVANSON WALKIN, also known as “Archie,” as the victim of the fatal shooting that took place last evening (October 10).

At approximately 9:00 p.m., multiple calls were made to the Police Control Room, reporting that gunshots were heard in an area called Club Med in Five Cays.

Upon arriving at the scene, detectives from the Serious Crime Unit found a male lying motionless, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The victim was later positively identified as Mr. Walkin.

This investigation remains ongoing, and we are urging the public to provide any information that may assist in solving this crime.

If you have any details about this incident, please get in touch with your nearest police station, call 911, or reach the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842.

Alternatively, anonymous tips can be provided via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or through the Crime Stoppers P3 app, where video footage and other information can be shared discreetly.

We thank the public for their cooperation and assistance as we continue our efforts to bring justice to Mr. Walkin and his loved ones.

Crime

Acting Police Commissioner, Rodney Adams issues statement on Jouvly Inelus and gruesome photo of his dead body

Published

7 days ago

October 8, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Turks and Caicos – For the past three months, Jouvly Inelus has been wanted by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) in connection with firearm-related offences, including homicides and robberies. Earlier this morning, officers from the Serious Crime Unit received forensic confirmation that the body found yesterday (September 30) is that of 32-year-old Mr Inelus, a resident of Blue Hills. This remains an active investigation, and the RT&CIPF extends condolences to Mr Inelus’ relatives and all families that lost their loved ones to violent crime.

Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams issues the following statement: “At around 11:12 p.m., officers received information and proceeded to a bushy area in Miracle Close, Blue Hills. Upon arrival, the officers discovered the motionless body of a male dressed in a black jersey and black basketball pants with what appeared to be gunshot and other injuries.

“Mr. Inelus had been evading the police for the past three months. Despite the challenges, the RT&CIPF remained relentless in their pursuit of leads and conducted joint operations across the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) with the assistance of local and regional partners.

“We wish to thank Crime Stoppers and also express gratitude to the members of the public who acted in the best interest of the TCI. The police force remains committed to pursuing anyone who seeks to cause instability in the islands while ensuring the safety and security of all communities.”

In a direct message to the youth, Acting Commissioner Adams said, “I am pleading with the young men—put down your guns and preserve your life and the lives of others. Crime does not pay and only leads downhill. Many opportunities are available, and the RT&CIPF is launching a mentorship program to support and guide the youth. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this initiative.”

The RT&CIPF is also aware of a photograph on social media of the victim’s body. The circulation of such imagery is appalling and demonstrates a complete lack of respect. We urge the public to refrain from viewing and sharing material of this nature.

The RT&CIPF calls on anyone with information regarding illegal activities to contact the nearest police station, 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to provide information anonymously.

Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information.