St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Minister for National Security, St. Clair Leacock, convened an emergency three-hour meeting with the police high command on Sunday following two fatal shootings over the weekend.
The February 8 meeting brought together Commissioner of Police Enville Williams, senior members of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), and key tactical leads from the Coast Guard Service to address what officials described as a “grave concern” over escalating violence and to strengthen coordination between policy direction and frontline operations.
The emergency response was triggered by two killings within a 24-hour period. Kevin Richards, 25, of Montaque, Mesopotamia, was fatally shot on Friday, February 6, while Lenford Peters, 43, of Richland Park, was shot and killed on Saturday, February 7.
Officials said the incidents underscore the growing proliferation of illegal firearms and the urgent need for stronger control measures. Leacock announced that the Government intends to implement tighter firearm policies, including what he described as a state-mandated disarmament initiative and a comprehensive overhaul of the firearm licensing system.
Among the measures outlined are an immediate audit and review of the legal framework governing firearm licences and permits, the introduction of more stringent background checks for applicants, and the mandatory revocation of all civilian licences for high-powered rifles.
Leacock stressed that the Government will not tolerate gang activity or any attempt by criminal groups to exert control over communities, warning that no area of the country will be allowed to become a “no-go zone”.
He also underscored the importance of a collaborative approach to crime fighting, involving government agencies, civil society, the private sector, faith-based organisations, schools and families to address the root causes of criminal activity while supporting enforcement efforts.
During the meeting, Commissioner Williams highlighted several operational challenges facing the police force, including manpower shortages, high attrition rates, and the need for improved working conditions and benefits to boost morale and retention. He also pointed to gaps in technical capacity and the need for modern equipment and enhanced traffic management systems to combat mobile criminal networks.
Leacock assured the police high command of the Government’s full support, noting that the 2026 national budget includes provisions aimed at strengthening law enforcement capacity and addressing critical operational needs.
The RSVGPF is also appealing for greater public cooperation in combating crime, urging citizens not to harbour criminals or remain silent about illegal activity.
“Public cooperation is essential to the effective prevention and detection of crime. Citizens are reminded: Do not turn a blind eye to crime. Do not harbour criminals. If you see something, say something,” the force said in a statement.
Police warned individuals involved in criminal activity to cease immediately or face the full force of the law, reiterating their commitment to investigate, arrest and prosecute offenders in the interest of public safety and national security.
