Premier of Nevis Hon. Joseph Parry (File Photo)

Premier of Nevis the Hon. Joseph Parry, expressed his concern over the recent criminal activity on the island of Nevis.  The Premier raised these sentiments in an address to the nation on Nevis TV Channel 8 on July 14, 2008.

 

"I come to you at this time because of the great concern that has been expressed by so many people around the island of the criminal activity that we have been experiencing for the past six weeks. 

 

"In June, a young man was murdered on the streets of Charlestown. It created great concern among us because the people of Nevis are not accustomed to that kind of behaviour," the Premier said. 

 

According to Mr. Parry, based on that murder, Police had increased patrols in the areas of Newcastle, Bath Village, Cotton Ground and Stoney Grove to ensure that there was no serious retaliation.

 

Since that murder, there had been a number of robberies in Nevis, some of which had taken place very early in the morning.

 

In an effort to address the concerns of residents, Premier Parry said he had held several meetings with the police, who have registered a strong commitment and renewed vigour in quelling unlawful behaviour on the island.

 

"There has been a great element of fear in the country and I feel we need to give assurance at this time. The people of Nevis cannot and must not surrender to their fears," he said.

 

Hon. Joseph Parry also indicated that the police in Nevis were working closely with the police on St. Kitts; and said he anticipated that over time, the police would be successful in bringing crime under control.

 

The Premier made an appeal to all persons to give full support to the police by assisting wherever they could. He also urged persons to give information to the police and to stand up and give evidence whenever they were called upon to do so.

 

"Be vigilant; seek protection from the police whenever needed," he implored listeners. "If you are dealing with money at night, have the police give you protection. They have told me that they are more than willing to offer the protection that our citizens crave," he said.

 

The Premier ended by assuring all, that the Government was confident that this matter of crime would be controlled soon and that peace would prevail in Nevis.