PM Calls For Partnerships in Fight Against Crime

(ZIZ News) — St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister, the Hon. Dr. Timothy Harris says Small Island Developing States need the support of gun producing countries to deal with violent crimes.

Prime Minister Harris, speaking at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, said partnerships and the sharing of information are critical in addressing this scourge.

“If small states are to overcome the challenges posed and exacerbated by transnational criminal activities, we must work in partnership. We need the support of gun producing countries to restrict the movement of illegal guns, light weapons and ammunition. Those who produce the firearms must do more to stop them from reaching our shores,” he said.

“We must share information and improve access to opportunities, education and employment because sustainable development is not achievable in an environment of crime and violence,” he added.

Dr. Harris updated his United Nations counterparts on his government’s efforts to rid the country of crime, making special mention of the Six Point Plan Of Action.

“At home, we instituted a six-point plan in our fight to reduce violent and drug-related crimes in particular. We are investing in new equipment and training to support our law enforcement professionals who prevent, detect and solve crime. We are working hard to build a new professional culture among and between our law enforcement agencies. We are encouraged by new statistics pointing to a decline in major crimes in the Federation, but much more must be done,” he said.

The Prime Minister said a key part of their approach to crime is to offer alternatives to those most likely to become targets or perpetrators of criminal behaviour.