(CMR) Following a significant spike in gang-related violent crime resulting in four deaths last weekend alone, the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands has asked Cayman to deploy a helicopter from the RCIPS Air Operations Unit to provide them with overnight aerial surveillance of the most badly affected areas.
According to a release from the Office of the Governor, the TCI government hopes the helicopter will act as a deterrent to any further escalation in violence and, ultimately, save lives.
The Governor discussed this request with the Premier and Police Commissioner and all agreed that Cayman should do everything possible to help another British Territory in need. The helicopter and crew are leaving Cayman shortly for this deployment.
“We are very lucky to have our Air Operations Unit, and the team there, ably led by Inspector Neil Mohammed, who were keen to help support law and order in TCI. I want to thank them for responding so quickly to this call for help and thank those who will be leaving their families to take on this very important role,” Governor Roper said.
“Our two state-of-the-art police helicopters are an outstanding asset to our Islands and the region. Our remaining helicopter is fully operational and will be able to respond to any requirements on our Islands,” he added.
Premier Wayne Panton said, “I am very pleased that Cayman can be of assistance to a fellow OT. We have a proud record of supporting our brothers and sisters in the region, and we are pleased to be in a position to do so.”
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