Police in Grenada launch special security exercise

To ensure the safety of both visitors and nationals, the Royal Grenada Police Force has initiated a special security exercise for this Christmas season. Called “Operation Yuletide,” the exercise commenced on December 17.  It is a nationwide operation and is headquartered in the respective divisions. “Yuletide” is intended to be a robust overt operation and will comprise three components and is being executed with the highest level of professionalism as the police seek the understanding, assistance and cooperation of the entire Nation.

Post Hurricane Ivan circumstances and occurrences such as looting and housebreaking, coupled with the possible increase in crimes against properties and persons at this time of the year, have led the RGPF to implement the necessary measures to effectively and proactively control and manage criminal activities through the country.

“It is the intention of the Force to be proactive in the prevention of Crime, and provide a firm rapid response to any situation,” media relations officer Troy Garvey said.  “The Royal Grenada Police Force is committed to its mandate to serve and protect, and will proudly play its part in the restoration and continued development of the Nation.”

For component one, there will be increased levels of foot and mobile patrols within and around all major residential areas and businesses throughout the state. The officers involve in this all day tour of duty will be wearing both uniformed and causal attire.  There will also be stationing of armed guards at all financial institution during hours of operation as well as the stationing of static mobile teams at strategic locations around the town of St. George.

Component two will involve positioning of mobile patrol units throughout the immediate suburbs of the town of St. George with special focus on gas stations, supermarkets, and other businesses.  “These units will operate within special geographic boundaries to ensure a quick response to any situation,” Garvey said.

Component three will entail the deployment of a rapid response unit to effectively deal with any instance of lawlessness, and provide support to all the other units involve in the overall operation.  The laws of Grenada give police officers the right to demand persons to evacuate from the streets, in case police view them to be standing “aimlessly.”

Throughout the exercise the capacity to process and respond to emergency telephone calls simultaneously will also be increased, the Royal Grenada Police Force said.

By Linda Straker
ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada (eTurboNews)

December 20, 2004   Posted in: Caribbean