CATEGORY:CRIME REPORT --------------------------- By Trevor Thwaites Inside Grenada correspondent Monday January 01,2007 ST.GEORGE’S, Grenada - “The records would indicate continued success in all areas of our operations. We have seen significant improvement in crime detection. We have made tremendous strides in our fight against illegal and drug trafficking”, Commissioner of Police Winston James disclosed, during his Christmas Day Message to the nation. The police chief said that the force has improved its response to reports of complaints and that their interaction at the community level has been positive. James said that there has been a general improvement in the quality of service being provided. However, he acknowledged that there have been some disappointments, which will be addressed with the greatest urgency to preserve the integrity of the force. The chief of police assured the nation that their commitment to protect and serve will not be compromised. He is high in praise for the many agencies and departments of government, the business community and NGO’s, that have assisted and contributed to their operation in 2006. The Commissioner of Police is expecting a challenging year for the force with the country slated to host six matches in the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup. However, he said that they prepared to overcome the challenge and deliver a safe environment during the hosting of the matches in April. “The Royal Grenada Police Force has committed resources to the successful hosting of the event and with continued training and planning, we would deliver at the highest level.” The Police Chief, also spoke about measures being undertaken in the New Year to further enhance and develop the force. “Recruiting, training and upgrading our facilities and equipment will be high on our list of priorities. We would continue to engage and interact with communities and villages across the nation, reinforcing our commitment to Community Policing”, Commissioner James said. He noted that with the assistance of the Ministry of Youth, they have been engaging the youths in positive developments. There has been an increase in violence recently, with several youngsters involved in chopping incidents. Some have event lost limbs as a result and the force wants to bring those unwarranted acts under control. A special plea has been sounded to the youngsters. “I will like to take the opportunity to call on all young men who are intent on using cutlasses and knives in solving problems to resort to peaceful solutions.” The Commissioner of Police is also seeking the assistance of the wider population for the preservation of law and order in the overall development of the country. “I invite you to join our volunteer programmes. Be part of community advisory boards and together we can make this nation as safer place. Your involvement can make the difference.” He said that the monitoring of regional and international developments and the formulation of appropriate responses would continue to be a priority of the force.