Prime Minister Harris Outlines Advancements in National Security

(ZIZ News) – Prime Minister, the Hon. Dr. Timothy Harris has outlined plans to streamline efforts in improving law enforcement in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Among the moves was the appointment of Osmond Petty as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security. He would be responsible for implementing the Defence Force Act, the National Defence Council Act and the National Crimes Commission Act.

Prime Minister Harris said the security of the Federation is a top priority of the state and there was much work to be done.

“We inherited a very bad situation.a demoralized Force which was under-resourced and lacking in the kind of motivational leadership required for the 21st Century,” he stated.

“We are working assiduously with international professional police out of the UK and elsewhere to help deal with the challenges of law and order,” he added.

Dr. Harris said the Police High Command took the lead in sourcing international assistance.

“These persons who have been secured were not secured by me. I hardly knew one of them. They were secured by the High Command of the Force, using their contacts and knowledge, having regards to their intimate knowledge of the security situation in the state, they determine their resource needs,” he explained.

Prime Minister Harris said the National Crimes Commission will also be activated to bring greater community involvement in the fight against crime.

An announcement is also expected, later, on the appointment of a National Security Advisor as well as an advisor on crime-fighting.