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Officially Sworn In; Commissioner Fitz Bailey Vows Action, Reform and Trust in Police Leadership

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Deandrea Hamilton

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Turks and Caicos, April 25, 2025 – Newly appointed Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey delivered a resolute and wide-ranging address, pledging transformative leadership of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

Standing before government officials, officers, and the public, Bailey described his appointment as not merely a personal achievement but a national milestone—one fueled by the shared longing for justice, safety, and stability.

Commissioner Bailey emphasized that policing is a sacred calling, not just a profession, and promised to lead not from behind a desk but from the frontlines—as a builder of trust and a servant of the people. Acknowledging every role within the force—from tactical and marine units to translators and cleaners—he affirmed the importance of unity and mutual respect at all levels.

Mr Fitz Bailey, originally from Jamaica was brought in as a special edition to the Police Force.  He was officially sworn in as Deputy Commissioner back on October 7, in a ceremony led by H.E. Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; a month later he was named the interim or acting commissioner of police.  Six months later, on April 10, the governor confirmed that Bailey would fill the commissioner post permanently.

It was a critical spot left vacant when Edvin Martin, a retired police chief from Grenada resigned after five months at the helm of the Force and amidst speculation about his ailing health.  That was last November.

“Following a competitive recruitment process, I have appointed Mr. Fitz Bailey as the next Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. This appointment signals a renewed commitment to safety, public confidence and the rule of law in every community. The security of our Islands requires bold leadership, modern policing strategies and the development of our capabilities. Having led the RTCIPF as Acting Commissioner for the past several months, I am confident that Mr Bailey brings the necessary depth of experience, vision and determination needed to lead this effort and ensure the safety of our communities,” said Her Excellency, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, TCI Governor.

On Friday April 25, 2025 at the swearing in ceremony held at the Gus Lightbourne Sports complex, Commissioner Bailey aimed for a posture of resolve, touting his work ethic and his faith.

Determined to confront rising crime and rebuild public confidence, Bailey unveiled a 30-day plan focused on increased patrols, joint task force operations, safety audits, and a visible leadership presence. “This is not symbolic,” he said. “We are a Force in action—not in waiting.”

Bailey also called out longstanding imbalances, vowing to address gender inequality in the force’s leadership and champion professional development. He promised an inclusive, modern police service rooted in values, not just enforcement.

“My leadership will be measured by results, not rhetoric,” he declared. “Together, we rise.”

Premier Misick Calls Appointment of New Police Commissioner a “Pivotal Moment” in TCI’s Fight Against Crime

Premier Charles Washington Misick hailed the appointment of Commissioner Fitz Bailey as the beginning of a new chapter in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ fight for public safety, accountability, and trust.

Speaking at the formal installation ceremony, which was attended by the Commissioners of Police from both The Bahamas and Jamaica; the Premier declared the moment “pivotal,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement leadership and transforming the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

Commissioner Bailey, a seasoned Jamaican crime-fighter with over 40 years of experience, was praised for his frontline leadership in gang suppression, financial crimes, and counterterrorism. “This is not a ceremonial role—it is a calling,” the Premier said, urging Bailey to lead boldly, justly, and with measurable results.

The Premier charged Bailey with restoring public trust, dismantling criminal networks, and ensuring officer wellbeing. He also called for the modernization of the force through education, technology, and capacity building.

Addressing the nation’s officers, Premier Misick assured them of the government’s support, noting that Bailey, having “stood where you stand,” would lead from the front. “The country is watching,” he said. “And we believe you are ready.”

The speech concluded with a vision of legacy—one rooted in law, order, and lasting transformation.

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Police Commissioner Honoured with Distinguished Civic Service Award at TCHTA Star Awards

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders, executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.

Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.

In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.

The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.

This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.

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New Chartered Accountant Member Appointed to The Integrity Commission

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Darius E. Ferguson, Member of the Integrity Commission Board

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Darius E. Ferguson as a Member of the Integrity Commission Board, serving as the Chartered Accountant Member in accordance with Section 3(2)(a) of the Integrity Commission Ordinance. His appointment is for a period of three (3) years and follows consultation with the President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Society of Professional Accountants.

Mr. Ferguson, with family ties to Providenciales and South Caicos, is a Chartered Accountant with over twenty years of senior leadership experience across aviation, finance, technology and consultancy, he brings a strong and diverse background in financial governance, regulatory compliance and strategic planning.

A former Chief Financial Officer of Sky Bahamas Airlines for a decade, Mr. Ferguson managed all financial reporting, regulatory engagement, capital projects and commercial development initiatives. He previously served in senior audit roles at both Ernst & Young LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, leading high‑risk audit engagements and ensuring adherence to international financial and accounting standards.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ferguson has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional ethics, community leadership and organisational accountability. His experience across corporate governance, financial oversight, and operational risk management will bring valuable strategic insight to the Integrity Commission.

Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointment, stating:

“Mr. Ferguson’s extensive background in financial management, auditing and governance, together with his leadership experience across both corporate and community sectors, make him well‑suited to serve on the Integrity Commission. His appointment strengthens our ongoing commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability in public life. I am confident that he will make a meaningful contribution to the Commission’s important work.”

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Multi-Agency Planning Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Block and Parcel 60503/17 in the Five Cays area.

The exercise was led by the Planning Department, pursuant to its statutory authority under the Physical Planning Act to address unauthorised development. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by the Crown Land Unit and the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.

The enforcement action formed part of a Public Private Partnership initiative between the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and private landowners. The registered owners of the land would have sought the state’s assistance to issue copies of Section 58 Enforcement Notices on unlawful structures identified on the parcel. The subject parcel comprises approximately 25 acres extending across Millennium Highway.

During the exercise, a total of fifty-four (54) copies of the Enforcement Notice were issued on structures located on the parcel. Notices were affixed to structures and served on persons found to be occupying illegal developments.

The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold planning regulations, protect property rights, and promote orderly and lawful development. Persons undertaking construction are reminded that development without the requisite planning approvals is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.

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