Hon. Moses Kirkconnell, JP Deputy Premier of the Cayman Islands Minister of District Administration, Tourism & Transport Statement Regarding Recent Criminal Activity

The Ministry of Tourism is fully supportive of the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service and other law enforcement partners taking swift and decisive action to protect law abiding residents and visitors to our Island, and ensure those who engage in criminal activity are brought to justice as quickly as possible.

As Minister of Tourism I am concerned by the recent rise in property invasions and the escalating seriousness of crimes being committed, which represent an unacceptable increase in lawlessness at the hands of a small minority of the population.

While I am thankful that no one has been injured during the commission of these offenses, the frequency of incidents is a grave concern. In addition, this spate of criminal activity has the potential to cause significant harm to communities and irreparably tarnish the good name of our tourism industry.

For decades the tourism sector has successfully marketed the beauty and safety of our Islands, placing emphasis on being one of the safest jurisdictions in the Region. Incidents such as these threaten that positioning and will erase years of hard work. With Tourism being a pillar industry, it is imperative that our country’s reputation and economy is safeguarded from the effects of crime, and residents once again feel safe in their homes, businesses and neighbourhoods.

The Acting Commissioner of Police, Anthony Ennis has outlined the tactical response that the RCIPS has implemented to enhance public safety. I encourage anyone with information on criminal activity that will assist the police in their investigations to come forward either directly or anonymously using the Crime Stoppers 800-Tips (8477) hotline.

As residents of these Islands it is incumbent on us all to support our law enforcement agencies in their efforts to maintain the peace and harmony for which the Cayman Islands are renowned.