Connect with us

News

Statement from the Premier on Recent Heinous Crimes in the Turks and Caicos Islands Fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders

Published

on

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.

News

TCI Border Force Hosts Border Security Training for Overseas Territories

Published

on

Turks and Caicos, February 12, 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Border Force recently concluded a series of critical training exercises focused on container targeting, search procedures, and firearms awareness. This initiative, a vital investment in regional security, saw TCI Border Force officers joined by colleagues from the Anguilla Customs Department, BVI Customs Department, and Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control.

The training, conducted from 21st to 31st January, was facilitated by a team from Home Office International Operations through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Border Security Programme and organised via the Integrated Security Funding Overseas Territories Border Security Programme. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the UK government and participating agencies to combat transnational crime and the flow of illicit goods within the Overseas Territories.

The curriculum encompassed three courses. The first, Fundamentals of Container Targeting (21st-24th January), focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of current priorities and container targeting capabilities, risk analysis within container traffic, and practical exercises utilising intelligence flows. The second, Search of Containers, saw participants receive specialised training on current threats facing the shipping industry and best practices for container search procedures. Finally, a crucial course on Firearms Awareness provided instruction on various types of firearms and the identification of firearm parts, equipping officers with the knowledge necessary to interdict illegal weapons.

These training exercises represent a significant step forward in strengthening the TCI Border Force’s ability to facilitate trade while protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Enhanced targeting and search capabilities will lead to more effective screening of cargo and potentially shorter processing times for legitimate shipments. Greater security will also be evident as the increased focus on firearms awareness will contribute to a safer environment.

“This training is a crucial investment in the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” stated Emilio Seymour; Director General of TCI Border Force. “By working collaboratively with our regional partners and leveraging the expertise of the Home Office, we are significantly improving our ability to detect and deter criminal activity. The enhanced skills acquired by our officers will have a direct and positive impact on our community, protecting our economy and ensuring a safer environment for all.”

The TCI Border Force remains committed to protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This training initiative represents a significant investment in that commitment.

Continue Reading

News

Solar PV Projects Completed at Critical Turks and Caicos Islands Healthcare Facilities

Published

on

Grand Turk Wellness Center

PRESS RELEASE

 

FROM THE Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities

South Caicos

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 11th February 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have taken a significant step toward a more sustainable energy future with the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at key healthcare facilities across the archipelago.

This initiative, funded by the European Union through the Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID) and implemented by Expertise France, aims to enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs for the TCI Government, and contribute to long-term economic viability.

North Caicos

The solar PV systems have been strategically installed at critical medical facilities, including the Blue Hills Clinic in Providenciales, the Bottle Creek Clinic in North Caicos, the Alsada Hall-Malcolm Primary Healthcare Clinic in Middle Caicos, the South Caicos Primary Health Clinic, and the Wellness Centre in Grand Turk. These healthcare centers provide essential services to local communities, and the integration of solar energy demonstrates TCI’s commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency within vital public sectors.

Leading this transformative initiative is the Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) under the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities (MPSU). The EUD has overseen the installation and integration of these solar PV systems within the local energy landscape, leveraging the islands’ abundant sunshine which averages approximately 350 sunny days per year — an ideal setting for solar energy generation. These systems, equipped with advanced battery storage solutions, will significantly reduce electricity costs for healthcare facilities while ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid outages or energy supply challenges.

Middle Caicos

EUD Commissioner Delano R. Arthur emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The solar PV systems will greatly reduce electricity costs and symbolize our shift toward a sustainable energy future. This investment not only strengthens energy security, but reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and environmental impact.”

The collaboration between the European Union, Expertise France, and local government agencies ensures that the project aligns with international renewable energy standards, benefiting both the environment and the community. Installation was successfully carried out by Green Revolution Ltd., a local company committed to advancing sustainable development in TCI. Their involvement highlights the importance of local expertise and community engagement in executing renewable energy initiatives.

Blue Hills

For further information, please contact:

Energy and Utilities Department (EUD)
Email: eud@gov.tc

Continue Reading

News

SHARK INCIDENT, BLUE HILLS

Published

on

12 February 2025, Providenciales – On Friday 7 February a tourist was injured by a shark in the waters adjacent to Blue Hills, Providenciales.

The individual was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care.

Upon confirmation of the incident the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) issued a beach closure notification from Thompson’s Cove Beach to Froggies ATV, Blue Hills in an abundance of caution. The beach was reopened on Sunday, February 9th at 1pm after it was determined that the shark had moved to deeper water.

The shark was estimated to be approximately 6ft in length, however the species is yet to be confirmed.

Further to the investigation, it has been determined that the tourist had attempted to engage with the animal from the shallows in an attempt to take photographs.

The DECR would like to urge the public to always  be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life. Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING