Armed robberies up more than 100 percent

(CMR) With armed robberies up more than 100 percent so far this year when compared to the corresponding period for 2022, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) said it has taken a rigorous approach to address these incidents.

Chief Superintendent Brad Ebanks told persons attending a George Town community meeting last week that there have been 47 firearm incidents reported since the beginning of the year, with 31 of those armed robberies. For the corresponding period in 2022, there were 15 armed robberies; this is more than a 100 percent increase in robberies.

Superintendent Ebanks said 24 of these robberies have happened in George Town. He explained that the police have embarked on a vigorous approach to address robberies and firearm incidents, with the Crime Task Force focused on these crimes.

Ebanks said 11 arrests have so far been made in relation to the robberies, with four persons charged. He also explained that a number of matters are before the DPP for ruling.

Superintendent Roje Williams said the police have increased resources to some units, such as the firearm units in an effort to combat the large number of armed robberies.

In the meantime, residents have called for a better relationship between the police and the community to build trust. Some residents complained that often times when they make reports to the police, persons against who the complaint is lodged are told who made the complaints.

MP Sabrina Turner also called for the police and community to work together.

“I think better relationships can be forged with the police, but it has to be reciprocal…it has to be a joint approach. It takes collectivity in order to solve these crimes,” Turner said.

Residents have also called for an increase in CCTV across the district to better deal with crime fighting. People are also calling for the legalization of pepper sprays so they can be able to defend themselves against criminal attacks.

Superintendent Ebanks said the police will work with other partner agencies to address the concerns and make the community safer.

The public meeting with the police was hosted by MPs Kenneth Bryan and Sabrina Turner.