Government determined to take hard line on lawlessness and criminality

St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas (photo by Erasmus Williams)

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JULY 15TH 2010 (CUOPM) – Government is determined to take a hard line on lawlessness, criminality, and brutality, regardless of rank or social standing, but while the judicial branch is independent of the executive and legislative branches, it is hoped that the judicial branch will be mindful of the importance of sending the strongest possible message to those who attempt to twist and distort the character and reputation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Speaking at his monthly Press Conference on Wednesday, St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister documented instances of police officers running afoul of the law, the attempt by a businessman to bribe a customs officer and the brazenness of armed robbers.

“Lawlessness has to be confronted, and is being confronted, in all its manifestations – regardless of the rank or status of the perpetrator. Persons attempting to bribe customs officials in violations of this country’s laws, for example, will be made to feel the full force of the law, as was recently the case when a prominent businessman was made to pay almost one quarter of a million dollars,” said Prime Minister Douglas.

He said persons defying the laws regarding the degree on tint on their car windows will be stopped and the tint immediately removed – as has been the fate of some 65 drivers in the past two weeks.

“Armed robbers will be hunted down and brought to justice – as can be seen in the three persons now being held with regards to the holdup of the O. D. Brisbane truck demonstrates….as can been seen in our current questioning of a suspect regarding the Royal Bank hold-up makes clear…..and can be seen in our heightened collaboration with regional and international security establishments attest,” said the Prime Minister.

Dr. Douglas said that members of the police force who violate the rules, regulations, and laws of this country will find that they are not above the law.

“This can be seen in the police officer who reported that Government Headquarters had been attacked now having been charged, and his recommendation for dismissal sent to the Police Service Commission. Similarly, the police officer who attempted to illegally secure a firearm from the Fire Station is now behind bars. The police officer who refused to report for duty, feigning illness, in order to work elsewhere while collecting a government salary, has been recommended for dismissal,” detailed Prime Minister Douglas.

He praised the officers whose hot and relentless pursuit of the O. D. Brisbane robbers resulted in their capture are to be praised and commended.

“They and their other committed colleagues are the models that we hold up to the nation and the rest of the force. Officers who are corrupt, uncommitted, or criminal are a stain on the name of this country, and a thorn in the side of their colleagues, and will be removed. Let the word go forth – this Government is taking a hard line on lawlessness, criminality, and brutality, regardless of rank or social standing,” said Prime Minister Douglas.