Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 08, 2014 (SKNIS): Fighting crime is largely executed by law enforcement in St. Kitts and Nevis, but residents have an important role to play in maintaining law and order.
Statistics from the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) reveal a 50.4 percent drop in reported crime for the month of August compared to the same period in 2013. Overall from January to August 2014 the decrease is recorded at 39.1 percent when matched with figures from last year.
Commissioner of Police Celvin G. Walwyn said that the enhanced visibility of police has been a key factor in the continued reduction of crime but equally important, has been the increasing number of persons reporting crimes and providing tips to authorities.
“Many residents have called police stations as well as Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to provide information,” Commissioner Walwyn stated. “We have made a number of arrests in current crimes being investigated as well as several cold cases and I want to encourage the public to continue cooperating with us.”
The public also has a responsibility to protect themselves. The police’s website www.sknpolice.com has a number of safety tips for businesses and individuals that can be followed to protect life and property.
Topics include robbery prevention, business safety tips, taking crime prevention to work, protect your child, neighbourhood watch, home safety tips, safety in your place of worship and more.
Positive interventions at various stages in a child’s life are a part of the strategy of local law enforcement. The Mentoring, Advising, Guiding and Instructing Children (MAGIC) Programme provides wholesome training to primary school students while the Teens and Police Service (TAPS) Academy aims to bring the police and at-risk youth closer through regular interaction and collaboration on various projects.
“Fighting crime is everybody’s business. It cannot be left up to the security forces alone. We will be there when you call but you have to call. We need you to support the police and help maintain peace and tranquillity in St. Kitts and Nevis,” Commissioner Walwyn concluded.