Cops: Expect crime free Divali

“Central Division continues to be a top performer in the area of firearm and ammunition seizures.

Recording a 55 percent increase over the comparative 2015 period, from 69 to 105, over 100 rounds of ammunition were seized and forty persons arrested and charged. Central Division realized a reduction in the areas of larceny of motor vehicles and break-in offences. Our major challenge, however, remains murder, wounding and shootings.

“In this regard, we continue to appeal to members of the public for information, notwithstanding any reservation you may have towards individual officers. Persons can call anonymously to numbers 555 or 800-tips. One significant initiative utilised in Central Division is Operation Community Outreach.

Through this initiative, police officers increased their levels of foot patrols in areas not deemed as hot spots, but for which we believe known criminal elements may be seeking refuge,” she said.

This bolsters, the top cop added, the sense of safety and security felt by residents, due to enhanced police visibility. It also allows for face to face, on the ground interaction not afforded by mobile patrols.

Community leaders are also there to assist in proper guidance and counsel of their fellow residents.

“We will like to thank the residents for all the assistance provided in our efforts to make central a safer place. In terms of the celebration of Divali in Central Division, with particular reference to the Divali Nagar site...we will continue to ensure a safe, incident free event for performers exhibitors and visitors.

Divali Nagar over the years attracts an estimated 10,000 visitors per night. This year we expect no difference.

The event will run from October 20 to 28 2016. We would like to assure all persons that the police will be out in full to ensure their safety and that of their property...” These efforts, according to Hodge-Griffith will include assistance from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Branch of the TTPS and the Air Support Unit to deal with any traffic situation that arises on the Uriah Butler Highway. She also urged those who will be attending to safeguard their valuables to avoid thefts.