EXERCISE RESTRAINT, PATIENCE AND REASONING

St. George, May 20, 2008 -- Commissioner of Police Mr. Winston James is again calling on the Nation to exercise patience, restraint, and a greater sense of reasoning in settling disputes and altercations.

Commissioner James is also encouraging parents, guardians and community leaders to assist the Police by continuing to engage our youth in more developmental programmes and provide positive alternatives for our young people.

He reminds the Nation that every citizen has a role to play in the fight against crime, and a community that is positively involved and engaged is generally safer.  James is urging persons to use the Police Tips line 444 1958 to report crimes and criminal activities, and also to seek police assistance by calling 911 or the nearest police station.

In response to the recent chopping incidents, and as the Nation prepares for the August festivals, Commissioner  James has directed the divisional commanders of the Royal Grenada Police Force to heighten all community policing related activities, increase the visible presence of the force through mobile and foot patrols, and to be more proactive when dealing with criminals and related activities.

All divisions and operational units of the Force will continue to engaging persons known to be involved in criminal activities and youth delinquency, with the primary objective of discouraging such persons from carrying or having access to cutlasses, knives and/or any other implements that could be used as a weapon.

Preemptive searches would also be conducted on persons and vehicles around popular gathering spots.

Persons who use cutlasses and other sharpened implements as tools of trade are advised to wrap and properly secure same when carrying.

A call is also being made to promoters and organizers of social function to refrain from selling products in glass bottles and to use disposable paper and plastic containers.

The Commissioner seeks the understanding and cooperation of the general public in this regard.

The nation is assured that the Royal Grenada Police Force will continue to utilize all its resources to preserve law and order and provide a peaceful and safe environment for all.