The Government’s public health approach to crime reduction in St. Kitts and Nevis has led to a dramatic decline in homicides and overall criminal activity, according to data presented by Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr. Terrance Drew during the 2026 Budget Address. The key phrase, public health approach to crime reduction in St. Kitts and Nevis, featured prominently as the Prime Minister outlined measurable improvements in national safety and citizen security.
Official statistics from the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force indicate that there have been six recorded homicides so far in 2025, compared to 28 in 2024. Of the 2024 cases, 16 were resolved. The reduction represents a 78 percent decline in homicides year to date, a performance that compares favourably with crime trends in larger countries across the Western Hemisphere. The Prime Minister also disclosed that law enforcement officers removed 20 illegal firearms from the streets in 2025, while overall reported crime fell by 11 percent at the end of 2024 compared to the previous year.
Addressing the National Assembly on Tuesday, 16th December, 2025, Dr. Drew described the results as unprecedented, noting that the country has experienced “the biggest drop in homicides in the last 20 years.” He recalled a period when St. Kitts and Nevis was labelled internationally as unsafe, a characterisation he said he strongly rejected while in opposition because of the long-term damage such narratives inflict on communities and national development. Now, he said, the improved security environment is a collective achievement that should be acknowledged and shared.
The Prime Minister attributed the progress to his Government’s decision to treat crime as a public health issue, grounded in research and evidence rather than fear-based or punitive responses alone. This strategy focuses on addressing the social determinants that contribute to criminal behaviour, including poverty, unemployment, mental health challenges, and gaps in education. By encouraging whole-of-society participation, the approach seeks to prevent crime before it occurs while strengthening enforcement where necessary.
Dr. Drew cautioned that the gains remain fragile and must be protected through continued cooperation. He stressed that lasting peace cannot be bought or sustained through corruption, urging citizens to remain engaged and committed to lawful, community-driven solutions. He emphasised that collective responsibility is essential to maintaining the progress achieved so far.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the impact of targeted social interventions, particularly programmes designed to support at-risk individuals. He noted that through structured engagement and opportunity-based initiatives, former gang members and vulnerable youth have transitioned into productive economic activity. The Elevate programme, he said, has been especially transformative, providing pathways to skills training, employment, and entrepreneurship.
In his remarks, Dr. Drew expressed appreciation to the men and women of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force and other security agencies for their professionalism and dedication. He also thanked members of the public for their active participation in crime prevention efforts, underscoring that improved safety is the result of partnership between government, law enforcement, and communities.
On Wednesday, Opposition Leader Mark Brantley also acknowledged the decline in crime and violence, admitting that he had initially been doubtful about the new public health approach to crime. During the Budget Debate, he told the National Assembly that he was “not convinced” at the outset that the strategy would work, but said the outcomes have been difficult to dispute. Brantley noted that the reduction in homicides and serious crime is real, adding that when a policy is delivering results, “you have to be fair enough to say so.”
Within the wider context of the 2026 Budget, the Prime Minister reaffirmed that citizen security remains a national priority alongside economic reform and social development. He said the sustained reduction in crime strengthens investor confidence, supports tourism, and improves quality of life, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to building a safer, more resilient St. Kitts and Nevis.
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