TCI News
TCI Regiment Commissions New Fast Patrol Boats, Boosting Maritime Security and Honoring National Heroes
PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE NATIONAL SECURITY SECRETARIAT
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 11th July 2025: The Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment today celebrated a significant milestone in national security with the official commissioning of two new fast patrol boats at South Side Marina. Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam presided over the ceremony in her capacity as Commander in Chief of the TCI Regiment, joined by Her Excellency the Deputy Governor Anya Williams, the Honourable Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Control, Hon. Jamell Robinson, and Permanent Secretary for National Security, Tito Lightbourne.
The two state-of-the-art vessels, acquired from SAFE Boats International, have been named as a profound tribute to brave Turks and Caicos
Islanders who made the ultimate sacrifice in global conflicts. The “George Henry” honors the only known Islander to have fallen in combat during the First World War, while the “Frederick Basden” commemorates one of four courageous Islanders who died during the Second World War. This act of naming not only provides a powerful link to the islands’ history but also serves as an enduring inspiration for current and future generations of the Regiment.
A pivotal moment of the ceremony was the formal inauguration of the TCI Regiment Maritime Troop, signaling a dedicated and enhanced focus on maritime operations and capabilities to safeguard the nation’s extensive marine domain.
Leaders Affirm Commitment to National Security
Her Excellency Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam underscored the strategic importance of this acquisition, emphasizing its role in bolstering the nation’s capacity to respond to a wide range of threats. “These vessels, now ready for active service, will significantly enhance our capacity to respond quickly and effectively to a range of maritime threats – from illegal fishing and illegal migration to more complex and evolving transnational challenges. Their deployment reflects our commitment to a safer, more secure maritime domain,” the Governor stated. She highlighted the unique maritime heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands, stressing the importance of complementing traditional skills with modern training. “Our investment in skills development – with the support of regional defence partners and the International Maritime Training Unit – is so critical. It ensures that our law enforcement agencies are not only capable mariners by tradition, but also modern professionals equipped to execute complex operations and uphold the highest standards of safety at sea.”
The Honourable Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Control, Hon. Jamell Robinson, passionately affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening national security. “I am pleased to be here today as we formally commission another vessel into service. Today’s action clearly and tangibly demonstrates this Government’s commitment to strengthening national security and law enforcement capability,” he declared. Deputy Premier Robinson emphasized the tangible impact of these investments: “These commissioning ceremonies are not symbolic. They represent the real and necessary work of governance, delivering results, enhancing operational readiness, and ensuring the safety of our people. With each new vessel added to the fleet, we expand the reach and responsiveness of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment.” He stressed the urgency given rising illegal maritime activity. “These assets are essential as illegal maritime activity, including unlawful entries into our territory, continues to rise. They allow for broader surveillance, faster response, and a more proactive posture in defending our borders.” He concluded with a powerful message of resolve: “We are not standing still. We are acting. Investing in our security infrastructure is not optional; it is an obligation. This Government will continue to provide the tools, training, and support required to meet the evolving threats we face… Let today serve as a reminder that Turks and Caicos are watching their shores. We are prepared. We are present. And we will protect what is ours.”
Permanent Secretary for National Security, Tito Lightbourne, expressed deep pride in this significant milestone for the TCI
Government. “Today, we not only welcome these patrol vessels into active service; we also reaffirm our enduring pledge to safeguarding the waters and environment of the TCI, protecting our people, and upholding the rule of law across our maritime domain,” Mr. Lightbourne stated. He underscored the comprehensive nature of the project. “These patrol vessels are more than just forged steel, they represent security, stability, and sovereignty. They are the strategic vision of the Governor and Government and the product of careful planning by the TCI Regiment and the Police Maritime Unit, coupled with the hard work of Safe Boats International; all working together to strengthen our maritime presence and operational reach.” Addressing the Regiment’s personnel, he urged them to serve “responsibly, with professionalism, honor, and an unshakable sense of duty and pride,” and highlighted the Regiment’s cap badge. “The three spears of the trident represent power, strength and balance, all qualities engrained into the man and woman of the TCI Regiment.”
Commanding Officer’s Address A Vision Realized and Expanding Reach
The Commanding Officer of the TCI Regiment, Lt. Colonel Ennis Grant conveyed immense pride and a profound sense of purpose. He highlighted the official commissioning of the two vessels from SAFE Boats International and the launch of the TCI Regiment Maritime Troop, led by Lieutenant Zachery Rigby and the newly appointed Officer in Charge of Maritime Operations, Captain Dixie Smith. “This day marks a significant leap forward in our nation’s security and our commitment to safeguarding our precious maritime domain,” he affirmed.
He vividly recalled the early discussions and shared vision that brought the project to fruition, acknowledging Permanent Secretary Tito Lightbourne and former Governor Nigel Dakin for their foresight. He specifically lauded the current government’s “unconditional support for the development of the Regiment,” stating, “This government understands that investing in our Regiment is an investment in the future prosperity and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
The Commanding Officer praised the intensive training undergone by Regiment personnel, which included rigorous Coxswain courses in Jamaica, comprehensive boat handling, boarding, and search procedures facilitated by the UK International Maritime Training Team, and crucial outboard engineering courses. “This comprehensive training regimen underscores our commitment to excellence and operational readiness,” he said.
He extended his deepest gratitude to all who contributed to this endeavor, including Permanent Secretary Tito Lightbourne, Assistant
Superintendent of Police Everet Warrican, Ms. Leonica Selver, Ms. Moesha Morris, Ms. Angy Been, Mr. Keshad Pratt, and Mr. Scott Clanton from SAFE Boats International. He particularly thanked the government for their “unwavering support of our long-term vision and for approving the funding for these purchases,” and Her Excellency the Governor for “executing the contract and supporting our aspirations and making this vision a reality for the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
The Commanding Officer described the two new patrol vessels as “multi-role platforms, vital instruments in protecting our beloved Turks and Caicos Islands.” Their capabilities extend beyond traditional patrolling to include critical roles in disaster response, protecting territorial integrity and sovereignty, and significantly enhancing the ability to support partners in the Fisheries Department, Border Force, and Police in combating transnational organized crime, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and marine environmental crimes. He stressed the strategic focus on maintaining a proactive posture for maritime domain awareness and dominance.
In a forward-looking statement, the Commanding Officer announced the Regiment’s commitment to a secure maritime future. He confirmed the ongoing acquisition of an additional patrol vessel to Grand Turk scheduled to be completed in November 2025, which will further extend the Regiment’s reach and enhance maritime capabilities across all islands. This continued investment underscores the unwavering dedication to the security of the entire archipelago.
The Commanding Officer concluded by acknowledging the enduring partnership with SAFE Boats International, initiated in 2014, for delivering vessels “truly fit for our unique purpose and demanding environment.” He expressed profound gratitude to all members of the Regiment and the government for their unwavering commitment, celebrating “not just the launch of vessels, but the dawn of a new era of enhanced security and prosperity for the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
TCI News
Turks and Caicos Islands Reaffirms Status as Premier Beach and Romance Destination at World Travel Awards
Turks and Caicos, September 21, 2025 – On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, the United States Coast Guard Southeast (USCG), working
in coordination with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the TCI Border Force, intercepted a vessel carrying 103 migrants bound for Providenciales.
The suspicious vessel, first tracked by the USCG, was stopped at sea and later secured by the Sea Guardian vessel, which towed it safely to South Dock Marina. Upon arrival, the migrants were disembarked and handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.
A breakdown of those on board confirmed:
- 75 males (including two minors)
- 28 females (including two minors)
This interception marks the 18th such operation in 2025, bringing the total number of migrants detained this year to 1,510. The RT&CIPF thanks the USCG and local agencies for their close cooperation, noting that this successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of layered security measures protecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Force reminds the public that illegal migration is dangerous and life-threatening, and violations of the law will not be tolerated.
Anyone with information on illegal migration is urged to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the P3 app.
Photos Courtesy: Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force
TCI News
Invest Turks and Caicos Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Impact at 4th Annual General Meeting
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – September 19, 2025 – Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency (Invest TCI) proudly hosted its 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Ritz Carlton, Turks and Caicos, marking a historic milestone, under the theme ‘ Celebrating a Decade of Innovation and Impact’.
The celebratory event brought together government officials, investors, developers, business leaders, and community stakeholders as the
agency reflected on ten years of strategic growth and outlined its vision for the next decade.
The meeting was called to order by Chairlady, Ms. Cindy Ewing, who welcomed the full house with energy and gratitude. She acknowledged the partnerships which have fuelled Invest TCI’s success over its first ten years. In her remarks, she stated, ‘This agency was created with a clear purpose, to attract sustainable investment that would strengthen our economy and open new doors for our people’.
The evening continued with a powerful address from Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development as cornerstones of the country’s future. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment, community-driven infrastructure, and balanced growth. Building on that vision, Her Excellency, Acting Governor Anya Williams reflected on how the landscape has shifted from TCI once seeking foreign investors to now being actively pursued. She emphasized that with this new dynamic, growth must remain sustainable, protect the environment, and deliver lasting benefits for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Delivering the agency’s annual performance report, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove outlined achievements during the 2024–2025 financial year. These included the first Youth Business Summit, the opening of a new office in Grand Turk, the launch of the Community Pop-Up Series, the approval of the Heritage Turks and Caicos Islander Investment Policy, and advancement of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy. She also reflected on a decade of accomplishments, noting how Invest TCI has expanded its reach, strengthened its impact, and positioned the islands for greater opportunity.
A Ten Years in Review video presentation followed, sparking applause and pride as it highlighted milestones in national development. The film set the stage for an invigorating panel discussion under the theme “The Next Horizon: Catalyzing Economic Development through Investment,” moderated by financial expert Mr. Drexwell Seymour.
The panel featured an extraordinary lineup: Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick, former Premiers Hon. Galmo Williams and Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove, and youth leader Ms. Arielle Neely. The discussion highlighted not only the perspectives of national leaders but also the entrepreneurial achievements of the former Premiers, both of whom have successfully built businesses that continue to contribute to the Turks and Caicos economy. The presence of three seasoned leaders alongside Invest TCI’s chief executive and a dynamic youth voice captivated the audience, underscoring both the depth of experience and the promise of the next generation.
The discussion was focused on how investment can power sustainable growth and resilience in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key themes included sustainable development, innovation and technology, local business competitiveness, youth integration, and public-private collaboration. Panelists emphasized the need for robust legislative frameworks and compliance, while highlighting human capital development as the cornerstone of future progress. Ms. Neely added a compelling youth perspective, calling for measurable inclusion through Youth Impact data and innovative financing models to ensure young people are active stakeholders in shaping the economy.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Invest TCI also launched the Inaugural Developer Awards, created to recognize developers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive, responsible, and impactful development. The awards spotlighted projects that extended beyond commercial success to deliver meaningful community value.
Two award categories were introduced:
- Sustainability Trailblazer: Recognizing developers who lead in building sustainable legacies through infrastructure, cultural preservation, and enduring community partnerships.
- Community Impact Award: Honouring developers who have made the most visible social contributions through job creation, training, community programs, and philanthropy.
Submissions showcased initiatives such as recycling and composting programs, eliminating single-use plastics, landscaping with indigenous vegetation, and investments in renewable energy. Many also reflected consistent support for local charities, reinforcing the vision of development that uplifts both the economy and the community.
Nominees included The Hartling Group, Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos), Grace Bay Resorts, Waterloo Investments Holdings Ltd., and JEM TCI Holdings Ltd. (Salterra Resort & Spa). Grace Bay Resorts received the Sustainability Trailblazer Award, while Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos) was honoured with the Community Impact Award.
Other memorable moments of the evening included two luxury raffle draws and a special recognition presented to Ms. Sheryl McLaughlin for five years of dedicated service to the agency.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Deputy Chair Mr. Walter Gardiner, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and extended appreciation to the organizers for delivering a successful and memorable celebration.
