BASSETERRE: Eight men have been charged with a combined 21 gang-related offences in what appears to be one of the most significant applications to date of St. Kitts and Nevis’ strengthened anti-gang legislation.
The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) announced that the charges were laid on 4th June, 2026, against Jamarie Herbert of John Street, Newtown; Avion Huggins of Lower Thibou Avenue; Alexander Samuel of Conaree; Inon Nias of Greenlands; Davin Phipps of Lower Westbourne Ghaut; Antonio Pascal of Cotton Ground, Nevis; Lewis Powell of Lower Thibou Avenue; and Vidal Wilkinson of Lower Westbourne Ghaut.
According to police, the charges include being a leader of a criminal gang, being a member of a criminal gang, possession of a firearm for the benefit of and in association with a criminal gang, possession of ammunition for a gang member, assisting in the concealment of murder, and being an accessory after the fact to murder.
In announcing the charges, the RSCNPF reiterated its position on organised criminal activity, warning that individuals involved in gangs or those who facilitate gang operations will face prosecution.
“The RSCNPF wishes to make it abundantly clear that there is zero tolerance for gang-related activity in the Federation,” the police statement said.
The statement added that individuals who associate with criminal gangs, provide support to gang members, facilitate criminal enterprises, or participate in acts of violence “will be identified, investigated, and brought before the courts.”
The charges come less than a year after Parliament approved amendments to the Gang (Prohibition and Prevention) legislation, significantly expanding the legal tools available to law enforcement agencies in combating organised crime. The reforms introduced stronger penalties for gang-related offences, broadened definitions relating to gang activity, enhanced evidentiary provisions, and increased the ability of prosecutors to pursue cases linked to criminal organisations.
The legislation also increased fines in some instances to as much as EC$500,000 and introduced prison terms of up to 40 years for certain offences. Additional provisions created new offences related to retaliation against witnesses and gang deserters while expanding the jurisdiction of the High Court in gang-related matters.
Police said public cooperation remains critical in disrupting criminal networks and encouraged citizens to report suspicious activity, illegal firearms, gang recruitment efforts, and other criminal conduct through established reporting channels.
The RSCNPF confirmed that investigations into the matter remain ongoing.