The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has unveiled the remarkable outcomes of its innovative 90-Day Campaign Against Crime and Violence, demonstrating a transformative approach to crime reduction. Spearheaded by the Citizen Security Secretariat and launched on 6th September 2024, the initiative aimed to tackle crime as a public health issue, prioritising community collaboration and holistic strategies.
A Significant Decline in Crime
The campaign achieved measurable success, with a 19% decrease in reported crimes and an extraordinary 66% drop in firearm-related homicides. During the initiative, firearm-related killings fell to just three cases, compared to the pre-campaign average of three per month. Additionally, 13 firearms have been confiscated this year, reflecting a strong stance on reducing illegal weapon use.
These outcomes are the result of a community-focused approach, blending grassroots engagement with data-driven solutions. Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, also the Minister of National Security, commended the collective effort.
“These results highlight what can be accomplished when a society unites against crime. The significant drop in firearm-related homicides demonstrates the power of collaborative, evidence-based strategies,” said Dr. Drew.
Community at the Core
Integral to the campaign’s success were partnerships with law enforcement, civil society, faith-based groups, and youth organisations. Community consultations offered invaluable insights, allowing policymakers to tailor interventions to address root causes of crime. The ELEVATE programme, a flagship initiative, focused on youth development, education, and skill-building while targeting vulnerable populations.
Eartha Carey, Coordinator of the Citizen Security Secretariat, emphasised the critical role of community voices in shaping the campaign’s direction:
“These findings reflect the lived realities of our people. Every statistic represents the aspirations of communities striving for safety and progress.”
Sustaining the Momentum
Prime Minister Drew stressed that while the campaign results are promising, maintaining and expanding these achievements is essential. The government is committed to evidence-based solutions that prioritise prevention, mental health support, and rehabilitation.
Moving forward, St. Kitts and Nevis plans to share its innovative strategies at the Third CARICOM Symposium on Crime, cementing its position as a regional leader in tackling crime through a public health lens.
A Model for the Region
The success of the 90-Day Campaign Against Crime and Violence proves the power of unity, innovation, and resilience. By addressing the root causes of crime and involving every segment of society, St. Kitts and Nevis has set a benchmark for sustainable safety and security in the Caribbean.
Photo 1: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew
Photo 2: Coordinator of the Citizen Security Secretariat, Eartha Carey
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