Police commended

(CNS): Although recovery efforts remain underway in Cayman Brac, Acting Commissioner of Police, David George is commending all police officers and staff for their response to the passing of Hurricane Paloma and sending thanks to those who have assisted the service.  “The RCIPS has detailed plans in place for dealing with hurricane threats and these have no doubt boosted our ability to respond,” said Acting Commissioner George.

He said it would be remise of hime not to highlight the amount of effort put in during and following the storm. "Many officers and staff have showed immense dedication and commitment, going out of their way, working long and hard for the good of the service and the community at large. Everyone involved should be very proud of themselves,” he added.

In a release from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, (RCIPS) officers in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman were noted for their efforts following the devastating storm. Police also said that in Cayman Brac, a temporary police station is fully operational at the UCCI building in Stake Bay and regular officers are being supported by a team from Grand Cayman. In Little Cayman, the officers who have been working around the clock have been relieved so that they can get some rest. Officers from Grand Cayman have volunteered to assist their colleagues in the Sister Islands, allowing staff to work on a rotation system, ensuring that everyone is fully rested and able to perform their duties to the best of their ability.

Cayman Protector and Cayman Defender, the newest addition to the marine fleet, have been making trips to and from the Sister Islands, supporting operations and ensuring the welfare of officers is taken care of. Both vessels assisted with shipping relief supplies such as non-perishable items, uniforms and equipment as well as generators for the affected officers and some residents, which were mostly funded from the Police Welfare Fund to reduce the burden on the public funds.

The RCIPS also thanked everyone who has assisted the police in getting operations up and running as quickly as possible, including those who provided trucking and storage for supplies until operations were able to move to the UCCI building. Officers who were in shelters have stated that people were more than willing to offer support and assistance and although they have now been able to move out of the shelters and back into their accommodations which have been partially restored, they thank everyone who assisted them during their time in the shelter. Finally, the RCIPS would like to thank the generosity of the business community, including the Chamber of Commerce, which assisted the RCIPS immensely with the provision of some equipment.

Meanwhile, Brac officers said they were pleased with the response they have seen from the public, however, they have noticed drivers are taking risks on the roads.

“We understand that people have places to go and things they need to get done,” said Chief Inspector Malcolm Kay, who is currently assisting Area Commander Chief Inspector Adrian Barnett. “But, we have noticed an increase in speeding which is not only reckless and dangerous, but also against the law. Drivers need to be cautious on the roads and should be warned that if they are caught putting themselves and others at risk by speeding, they will be dealt with under the traffic law.”

In addition, firearm license holders in the Sister Islands are reminded to check on the safety and security of their firearms. If anyone identifies a security risk with the storage of their firearm, they should contact the police who can assist with safe storage. Officers will be carrying out inspections of over the next few days to ensure that all firearms are kept securely. Members of the pubic can call the following numbers for police:  Cayman Brac: 948-0331 or 926-0635 Little Cayman: 925-4428 or 925-4431.

Anyone with information about crime taking place in the Cayman Islands should contact their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 (TIPS). All persons calling crime stoppers remain anonymous, and are eligible for a reward of up to $1000, should their information lead to an arrest or recovery of property/drugs