Today marks a significant moment for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force as we gather to witness the swearing-in ceremony of Mr. Edvin Martin as our new Commissioner of Police.
I would like to start by expressing my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who lost loved ones over the weekend. I know the trauma of the loss is felt keenly by all, with increased concern for the safety of our communities and the lives of our youth. It is particularly sobering that the mother of one of the victims is a dedicated social worker who works diligently to ensure protection and safeguards for our at-risk youth.
Together let us honour the memories of those we have lost by standing united in condemning all forms of violence and senseless acts of aggression.
These are sobering times indeed. The Turks and Caicos Islands continues to grow as a nation, her economy is steadfast, and her picturesque beauty is renowned around the world. However, we are all acutely aware that the factors that threaten our peace and prosperity are now more complex than ever.
In our collective efforts to address the threats we face, the principles by which the police conduct their duties – to protect; to prevent crime; to bring to justice those who break the law; and to keep the peace – remain central to our policing response.
The appointment of Mr Edvin Martin as the Commissioner of Police comes at a pivotal time. Our current greatest challenge is that of threats aligned with national security, both internal and external – transnational crime and irregular migration.
Tackling the concerning rise in violent gang-related crime and threats to our border security is our key focus. The National Security Council is working as a priority to develop strategic interventions that will strengthen criminal justice outcomes for the Turks and Caicos Islands, critically starting with prevention and the development of community policing; and looking holistically at detection and investigation, charge and prosecution, hearings, sentencing and rehabilitation.
In support of our border security efforts, we are working with the Joint Maritime Security Centre to embed new assets to secure our maritime domain awareness and support patrols of our waters.
We are sharpening the tip of our spear by investing significantly in our front-line enforcement agencies so that they are strengthened with new strategic, tactical and operational capabilities. We are resolute – we will not back down from any challenge and we will not ignore the threats that touch us all.
Addressing these threats requires efforts from not only the police but from all partner agencies and each of our communities. A strong relationship between the police and the communities they serve is of critical importance, now more than ever. Trust and confidence of the community are key.
The selection of Mr. Martin as our new Commissioner was guided by the need for an experienced policing lead, consummate in tackling effectively complex organised crime and who could strengthen the bond between law enforcement and communities across our islands.
Mr. Martin brings with him a wealth of operational and regional experience, with a distinguished career in law enforcement that spans many years. His leadership roles include his tenure as the head of the Royal Grenada Police Force and his instrumental role in leading the CARICOM Gun Crime Intelligence Unit with regional and international partners, which are a testament to his leadership skills and unwavering commitment to the cause of justice.
I am delighted to welcome you, Commissioner Martin, to your new role and to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Your committed public service and regional policing expertise confirm the public service that I know you will deliver dutifully as our Commissioner of Police.
In closing, I would like to thank Deputy Commissioner Adams, the Force Executive and the rank and file of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force for their committed service in keeping our islands safe. I am confident that Commissioner Martin’s leadership will inspire us all to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in the communities we serve.
