Over 100 holiday arrests

(CNS): Police announced today that 104 arrests were made over the festive season for various offences from drugs to assault. Operations Python 2, Thor 2 and Caspian 2 in George Town, West Bay and the Eastern Districts were aimed at keeping the Cayman Islands safe while at the same time deterring and detecting crime. “Although we are pleased with the overall success of the campaign, it is disappointing to see so many people breaking the law and risking their own safety,” said Acting Commissioner, James Smith.

The RCIPS said that 51 people were arrested in George Town including; six for assault, three for carrying prohibited weapons, five for burglary, nine for disorderly conduct and three for theft. In West Bay, 15 drug operations were carried out, 24 drug related arrests were made, 16 traffic operations were conducted, 39 speeding tickets were issued and three people were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. In the Eastern Districts, 4 drug related arrests were made, 2 people were arrested on suspicion of burglary, there was one arrest for possession of a prohibited weapon, 49 stop checks were carried out and numerous road blocks resulted in 22 people being warned for intended prosecution for traffic offences.

The Christmas campaigns involved a variety of initiatives including high visibility policing, road blocks, increased foot patrols and intelligence-led operations. The RCIPS sends special thanks to the Special Constabulary who played an enormous role in making the festive season as safe as it was.

“While may people were relaxing and enjoying the Christmas period, it’s important to remember that there are many men and women working hard, around the clock to ensure the safety of the Cayman Islands,” added Smith. “The Special Constabulary, who are made up of volunteers donating their free time for the good of the islands, work alongside our regular officers and should not be forgotten.”

The RCIPS said that efforts by police to tackle crime and disorder will continue into 2009. The recent interception of a canoe carrying 385 pounds of ganja should act as a warning to others that the RCIPS will not tolerate drugs trafficking in the Cayman Islands. The RCIPS continues to seek the support of the community in fighting crime.

If anyone knows of criminal activity taking place they are encouraged to speak to their local officers, an officer they know personally or to call Crime Stoppers anonymously. 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.