Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin has issued a news release clarifying a statement made at a joint News Conference with the Governor Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel Selvaratnam and Premier Hon. Washington Misick, on September 17, 2024, at the Premier’s Office on Providenciales.
During the statement the commissioner alluded that few guns were used to commit multiple crimes. The following is the commissioner’s statement:
I wish to address and clarify the statements made during the Joint National Press Conference held on September 17, 2024, regarding the connection between 32 murders and a single firearm.
My initial comments have led to speculation, and I understand the public concern from several quarters. It was incumbent upon me to provide a more detailed explanation.
Over the past two years, ballistic results have shown that certain firearms are repeatedly linked to multiple homicides, with some weapons being involved in two, three, four, five, or even more cases.
It was in this context that the statement was made. These findings point to a troubling pattern in which a relatively small number of individuals are responsible for a significant portion of these violent crimes, often using the same firearms.
This clarification is intended to resolve any confusion caused by my earlier remarks. I wish to assure the public that the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) is committed to thoroughly investigating and addressing these serious matters. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to ensure the safety of our communities.