News
Ending the violence in TCI Demands Deep Solutions, Not Quick Fixes
Ed Forbes
Turks and Caicos, December 1818, 2024 – Turks and Caicos Islands can no longer afford to leave our future to chance when it comes to gang violence; It’s certainly a name we wish to erase.
Despite the concerted effort made by our dedicated law enforcement departments to infiltrate and disrupt these groups, there appears to be no abating when it comes to violent crimes.
It is evident the challenges facing our country runs deeper than the changing of guards. The population of TCI continues to grow immensely, and everything from our natural environment to our sense of security we once took for granted is being impacted.
We are seeing the impact with serious crimes, housing inequality, electricity hikes, food prices and the like. We are also beginning to see a generational divide in home ownership. Despite a bustling economy, there still seems to be so many challenges with unemployment particularly with our young men.
The question so many of our citizens continues to grapple with is, whether our government is moving fast enough to keep up with the
growing demands, and are we running a 1st world country with 3rd world resources?
The relentless scourge of violence shows the impact of the scope and scale of these tit-for-tat killings, and it’s hitting at the core of our being.
With that being said, not only should the police and the courts seek to inflict maximum disruption, penalties and arrest of the perpetrators, but seek to find real and sustainable solutions.
The writing is on the wall with the infiltration of gang violence, a number of them from our neighboring countries who are no strangers to violence. Unfortunately, fear in the communities will only deepen if it continues and innocent bystanders could eventually get caught up in the crossfire.
Let’s face it, dealing with gang related violence in TCI is out of our league. “Its a culture shock”. This goes beyond law enforcement arresting their way out of this one.
What we don’t want is for entrenched crime areas like Five Cays, Kew Town and Dook Yard, to become the prologue for further violence in other communities.
In my opinion, the only plausible way to bring this escalating horror to a grind, is to do the following.
-Tap into the knowledge and expertise of foreign Investigators who understand the complexity of these types of crimes.
Well-trained professional gang task force investigators, who also understand the importance of truce negotiations between these groups to help resolve their conflicts and save them from themselves.
-Jamaica, the United States and select countries in Central America, lived this horror and have been dealing with this level of violence for years before they were able to get it under control.
Therefore, why not expand our reach in such countries. What we need is intelligence-driven strategies and skilled boots on the ground.
A multifaceted approach with the right intervention, will help to prevent other young men in our communities from emulating this kind of violence or profiting from this lawless butchery of human lives.
The AGs office has taken progressive steps with the implementation of ordinances to tackle gang and organized related crimes, but we
cannot stop there. What we need now are the right resources to help reinforce it.
What is also important to understand is, because of our geographic location, wide open borders, and the use of the US currency, it’s a different dynamics which requires a unique approach.
Although the complexities of gang violence look pretty daunting and long lasting good outcomes far from guaranteed, we cannot recoil into our corners and wish it would go away.
In the interim, what have we done differently in the affected communities to strengthen our resolve?
-Do we have substations in these communities be it mobile units or brick and mortar buildings? 
-Is the department equipped with Ariel surveillance and would a helicopter rather then a fixed-wing aircraft prove to be more effective?
-Are we building trust in the respective communities by assigning police officers to specific neighborhoods to build relationships and familiarity with residents?
-Do we have committed and progressive leadership, with the ability to maintain high morale and motivation of our dedicated police officers?
-Are we strengthening the family structure within those communities through parenting classes, financial assistance, and conflict resolution resources?
-Are there tax incentives for employers willing to hire ex-convicts giving them a second chance?
-What long-term strategic plan are in place for a HM Coastguard ship to remain in our waters to deter or repatriate illegal migrants?
In these communities, there is a clear and present danger of them becoming a haven for drugs and weapons traffickers, because it appears more lucrative and there are limited alternatives.
In an age of uncertainty, our law enforcement agencies must have the ability to act with predictability and decisiveness.
It’s now an urgent matter that must concern all of us, whether we choose to confront the problem or just look the other way it’s obviously something we need to tackle head on. If you see something, say something.
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
Photo Captions:
Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
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News4 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
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News1 week agoMulti-Agency Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays
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Caribbean News5 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
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News4 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals