Saint Lucia police report decline in major crimes ahead of Carnival 2026
Key Points(5)
- The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is urging residents and visitors to prioritize safety during Carnival 2026, as the country records declines in several major categories of crime.
- Crime statistics from the RSLPF for the period January 1 to July 10, 2026, compared with the same period in 2025, show reductions in burglaries, robberies, drug offences, stealing from a person and sexual offences.
- According to the police force, burglaries declined by 23 per cent, robberies by 5 per cent, drug offences by 21 per cent, stealing from a person by 21 per cent and sexual offences by 19 per cent.
- The RSLPF also reported continued efforts to remove illegal firearms from communities, with officers recovering 39 illegal firearms, along with ammunition and firearm components, during the same period.
- The force said the recoveries reflect ongoing efforts to reduce the availability of illegal weapons and prevent violent crime.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is urging residents and visitors to prioritize safety during Carnival 2026, as the country records declines in several major categories of crime.
Crime statistics from the RSLPF for the period January 1 to July 10, 2026, compared with the same period in 2025, show reductions in burglaries, robberies, drug offences, stealing from a person and sexual offences.
According to the police force, burglaries declined by 23 per cent, robberies by 5 per cent, drug offences by 21 per cent, stealing from a person by 21 per cent and sexual offences by 19 per cent.
The RSLPF also reported continued efforts to remove illegal firearms from communities, with officers recovering 39 illegal firearms, along with ammunition and firearm components, during the same period.
The force said the recoveries reflect ongoing efforts to reduce the availability of illegal weapons and prevent violent crime.
With Carnival celebrations approaching, the RSLPF has activated its Carnival security plan, which includes increased police visibility through foot and mobile patrols, traffic management operations and strategic deployments along parade routes, major event venues and communities across the island.
Dedicated response teams will also be positioned to respond quickly to incidents, while police operations will continue throughout the Carnival period to deter criminal activity and maintain public order.
The RSLPF called on the public to contribute to a safe and peaceful Carnival season by making responsible choices and avoiding conflict.
“The reductions we are seeing in several major crime categories show what can be achieved through the hard work of our officers and the continued support of the public,” the force said.
“As we prepare to celebrate Carnival, I ask everyone to make safety a priority. Respect one another, avoid unnecessary confrontations and make responsible decisions.”
The police also encouraged those consuming alcohol to do so responsibly, look out for family and friends, and follow the guidance of police officers and event officials.
“Carnival is one of Saint Lucia's proudest traditions. Let us all do our part to ensure it is remembered for its music, creativity and culture — not for violence or disorder,” the RSLPF said.
The force extended wishes for a safe and enjoyable Carnival 2026 to Saint Lucians, returning nationals and visitors.
