Dominica: The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackle the gun violence head-on. Minister for National Security – Rayburn Blackmoore stand against the violence and said that it is the number one threat to peace and national traditions.
Reportedly, to curb this issue a new anti-illicit firearm task force has been formed alongside a specialised community policing unit. Dominica aims to strengthen the security measures ahead of the 2025 World Creole Music Festival.
The federation of Dominica remains true to its commitment and ensured that the police has provided the resources that requires to stop the escalation of gun violence. National Security Minister – Rayburn Blackmoore said that it is an obligation on him as a Minister and as a citizen of Dominica to ensure that the police is equipped with needed personnel and the resources to go after the players involved in this syndicate of gun violence.
He anticipated the influx of visitors for the upcoming #WCMF2025 and promised the nationals to keep them safe and secure. Blackmoore said that it is imperative that they work together to maintain the peace by trying to prevent the escalation of gun violence in the Caribbean country.
The National Security Minister further announced that a task force has been formed to deal exclusively with firearms. He mentioned that every officer in the unit will be polygraphed. An anti-illicit Firearm Inter Agency Investigative Unit comprising officers from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and customs.
Rayburn Blackmoore said that they have to have the sense of seriousness in law enforcement. He presented his gratitude to the regional partners and international partners for assisting them in providing the professionals to Dominica, who are working right now on the island. On personal level, Minister Blackmoore is doing various tests which are critical.
Furthermore, a specialised unit for the community policing has also been established, considering which the National Security Minister said that apart from the intervention by law enforcement, sociological intervention will also be needed.