Can new police tactics stem the tide?

As gun violence continues to rise in Barbados, recent efforts to tackle the issue have escalated with the unveiling of a new six-point policing strategy by Commissioner of Police Richard Boyce. This initiative, which includes targeting the entire criminal firearm supply chain, strengthening organisational resilience, and incorporating advanced technology into policing, signals an attempt by The Barbados Police Force to address the crisis. But is this strategy enough to make a tangible difference in the fight against gun violence?

 Barbados has seen alarming increases in firearm-related incidents, including a record number of murders. The statistics paint a grim picture: gun-related offences surged by 14 percent from 2023 to 2024, and last year saw the highest murder rate on record. In response, the police force has crafted a comprehensive plan that it says targets traffickers, users, and suppliers of illegal firearms, while also seeking to improve community trust and public safety.

 One of the standout aspects of the new strategy is its focus on using technology. With the introduction of body-worn cameras, expanded CCTV coverage, and digital tools for crime scene documentation, the police are equipping themselves with the tools necessary to gather clear evidence and build public confidence. These steps could significantly enhance transparency, improve police accountability, and give officers the tools to respond to gun violence more efficiently. But while technological advancements are crucial, they alone won’t solve the problem. Criminals today are increasingly sophisticated, and the use of technology can only go so far.

 The strategy outlined by Commissioner Boyce also highlights the importance of collaboration between the police and the public, along with assistance from the Barbados Defence Force (BDF). The commissioner has rightly pointed out that this fight cannot be won by law enforcement alone. It requires a concerted effort across all sectors of society. Yet, the success of such partnerships remains uncertain. Will the community be willing to fully engage with law enforcement efforts, or will mistrust and reluctance to cooperate undermine progress? The relationship between the police and the public in Barbados has long been strained, and while there are efforts to build trust, these efforts will require more than just rhetoric; they will need to be backed by sustained community engagement and tangible results.

 While the police’s new strategy focuses on suppression, it is unclear whether it does enough to address the root causes of gun violence. We cannot simply respond to gun crimes after they occur, but must work preventively, addressing social issues like unemployment, educational disparities, and mental health concerns that contribute to crime in the first place. Without a comprehensive focus on prevention, which includes addressing the societal factors that drive individuals toward crime, this strategy may not be enough to stem the tide of gun violence.

 Moreover, the rise in gun violence reflects a broader issue within Barbados: the demand for illegal firearms. Until the supply of these weapons is dealt with at the source — through international cooperation, stronger borders, and more effective law enforcement at all levels — the new strategy may only provide temporary relief rather than a long-term solution.

 The government’s recent efforts, such as the 20 per cent tax on ultra-processed and salty foods aimed at improving public health, hint at an understanding that preventative measures are essential in tackling societal problems. However, when it comes to gun violence, the need for a similar, long-term, multi-faceted strategy is undeniable.

 Commissioner Boyce’s strategy is a step in the right direction, but we must also look for comprehensive, long-term solutions. To truly make a lasting impact, Barbados needs a more holistic approach that combines strong policing with social reform, community engagement, and international cooperation to eliminate the sources of illegal firearms. Only then can the nation hope to see a meaningful decline in gun violence and ensure a safer, more secure future for its citizens.