Turks and Caicos, December 20, 2024
Today (Friday December 20) I address you with a heavy heart, but also with unrelenting determination. Our nation is in mourning once again; another life senselessly taken. In the past few days, our nation has endured violent attacks that have robbed families of loved ones, disrupted our communities, and instilled fear in the hearts of our people. These acts of cowardice and brutality are nothing short of an attack on the peace and safety of every law-abiding citizen of these islands. To the families who are grieving, I share my condolences. As a nation, we stand in solidarity with you, sharing in your pain and outrage. Your loss is personal to all of us, and I assure you that justice is being pursued with unrelenting focus.
To those injured or traumatized by these horrific events, we pray for your strength and healing. I have made it abundantly clear to the Governor and Commissioner of Police that swift and impactful action must be taken, and have maintained close communication with them to ensure that when I address our citizens, I am fully informed about the actions being taken. I am assured that good intelligence has been received after yesterday’s shooting and officers and following strong leads in the case.
Following today’s attack, one suspect was detained near the scene, and officers are conducting an aggressive manhunt for the remaining perpetrators. The Commissioner of Police has issued an unequivocal directive: “EVERY police officer is to be on the streets to protect, support, and secure the law-abiding citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Turks and Caicos, I take my responsibility for protecting this country very seriously. We will not sit back and allow criminals to dictate how
we live. My resolve is firm, and my message to the perpetrators is clear – YOUR TIME IS UP. These islands will not be a haven for your lawlessness. The safety of our people is paramount, and this government will use every resource at its disposal to ensure you are brought to justice.
I fully support the Commissioner’s mandate and have reinforced to the Police Force that results are not optional – they are required. I WILL ACCEPT NO EXCUSES. Any resources they need to act decisively will be provided, and their actions must reflect the urgency of this situation.
I want to thank the hardworking officers of the Force. The task is not easy, and your bravery to protect the citizens of this country is appreciated. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has made commendable progress in recent months: • More than 40 gang members and individuals involved in serious violence have been arrested.
- 15 illegal firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition have been seized.
• There have been several major drug seizures.
• There is a 70% reduction in maritime interdictions within our territorial waters.
While these achievements are significant, they are not enough. The people of these islands deserve swift and decisive action to end this crisis. Let me also say this. To those who aid and abet criminals – whether by providing shelter, resources, or silence – you are part of the problem, and you will be treated as such. The law will reach you, and the consequences will be severe.
To my fellow citizens, this is not just a battle for the Police Force – it is a fight for all of us. Your vigilance and cooperation are essential. These criminals must know that their actions will not be tolerated. We must be as determined to protect our peace as they are to disrupt it. Zero tolerance must be the order of the day. If you see something, you MUST say something. Even the smallest detail could lead to dismantling these criminal networks.
As the manhunt continues, I urge you to be patient and understanding with the increased police presence. Yes, there will be inconvenience, but it is for your safety. In the end, we will win this fight. We will restore peace and safety to our communities.
In the spirit of community and the season upon us, let us offer comfort to the families affected by these tragedies. Together, let us confront this challenge with unity, vigilance, and determination.
May God bless and continue to protect these beloved Turks and Caicos Islands.