The Premier has decried the few recent acts of violent crimes that have been committed in the community of Providenciales, making it clear that “it will not be tolerated” and that law enforcement and the judicial system must “throw the book” at the offenders.
This statement followed the murder of local businessman, Mr. Robert Been, at his place of business in the Grace bay area sometime after eight o’clock last evening.
The Premier has condemned this latest act as being “cowardly” and “brutal,” stating, that “Even though we still boast one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean, these recent incidents of violent crimes, are totally unacceptable. Not only are we destroying the lives of our citizens, we are also potentially destroying the reputation of our beloved country in the international arena and damaging our bread basket tourism industry all at the same time. As Premier, I will ensure that the necessary resources at our disposal are made available to fight crime and in this vein I am calling on the Governor, the Commissioner of Police, the Judiciary and on you, the residents of our islands, let us all do our part and work together in the prevention and detection of crime and the conviction of the offenders. Together we must ensure that our country remains the safe haven that it is known to be.”
The Premier encouraged members of the community who have information that may assist the Police in their investigations, to come forward, and further stated “My Government continues to beseech the UK Government to also do their part in the fight against crime.”
Premier Ewing extended condolences and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the late Mr. Robert Been Sr. on behalf of the Government of The Turks and Caicos Islands and said “May God be your source of strength during your period of bereavement. Our country grieves with you”.
