AG stands by police, BDF in response to violent crime

Attorney General Dale Marshall has voiced his confidence in the efforts of the police and the armed forces in response to a recent surge in violent crime.

“Let us allow the efforts of the police to take root,” Marshall told reporters on the sidelines of the CARICOM IMPACS/INTERPOL’s 8th High-Level Meeting of the Dialogue on an Effective Multilateral Policing Architecture Against Global Threats at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre. “At this point in time, I’m not going to make any comment other than I’m satisfied with the efforts that have been put in by the members of the police service, supported by the Defence Force.”

The escalation in violent crime last month, most notably the deadly bar shooting on Nelson Street in Bridgetown, has heightened public concern and led to widespread calls for urgent action. The increase in gun violence has also impacted various sectors, including healthcare, with medical professionals raising alarm about the strain on resources and the extensive care needed for some victims.

Marshall acknowledged the seriousness of the situation but pointed out that crime patterns often fluctuate. 

“There’s a lot still to be done, but my experience tells me that there will be spikes over the years. Sometimes it’s quiet, sometimes you get spikes,” he explained. “I’m not in any way making any predictions or pronouncements about the situation as it stands. All I will say is that I’m pleased with the work that has been done, and I’m satisfied that there’s a level of, perhaps I could say, tranquillity in Barbados at this point in time.”

Despite his cautious optimism, Marshall called on Barbadians to continue supporting the government’s crime-fighting efforts. 

“We will continue to keep the pressure on and continue to support the police service, and I want the country as a whole to continue to support the crime-fighting effort,” he said. (RG)