Project Safe Bahamas initiative proves valuable

NASSAU (CMC):

Law-enforcement officials said they have seized 125 pounds of cocaine and more than 2,700 pounds of marijuana so far this year, adding that this is due to the introduction of the Project Safe Bahamas initiative.

Junior National Security Minister Keith Bell said that as a result of the project, firearm seizures have also increased by more than 35 per cent with more than 350 illegal firearms taken off the streets so far this year.

NOT AN EASY ROAD

"Ours is not an easy road ahead, but with God's grace and guidance, we will deliver a safer Bahamas," said Bell, a former chief superintendent with the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

Bell said the reintroduction of the Urban Renewal Programme had also had a tremendous impact on crime, adding "We are taking away the spaces from criminal operations and enterprises.

"Just recently, as Urban Renewal commenced clearing of a tract of land near Jubilee Gardens known for criminal activities, more than a pound of marijuana was discovered.

"In every area where properties are being cleared and old and abandoned buildings are being demolished, stolen property is being recovered or drugs and illegal weapons are being found," he added.

Bell said the Perry Christie administration has given the country the assurance that law-enforcement agencies would be allowed to manage their affairs free of political interference.

'Ours is not an easy road ahead, but with God's grace and guidance, we will deliver a safer Bahamas.'