Security Council concerned about spike in criminal activity and drug issues in Cayman Brac

The alarming recent spike in criminal activity and lawlessness in the Cayman Islands led to all members of the National Security Council meeting last week to discuss how to best tackle the increasing problems.

Several critical matters of national importance concerning crime, irregular migration, policing and border control were tabled at the NSC meeting on October 4.

Police Commissioner Derek Byrne briefed the Council on the current status of criminal and drug related activities, including recent firearm incidents on Grand Cayman and drug abuse in Cayman Brac. He ended with a progress report on how these issues are being handled and future plans to tackle law breaking throughout all three islands.

Cayman Islands Coast Guard Commander Robert Scotland, on behalf of Deputy Police Commissioner Kurt Walton also presented on policing and security, as well as the procurement of new equipment that will aid officers at vehicular checkpoints.

The Council also heard a number of border control matters, including a presentation by Commander Robert Scotland on maritime domain awareness and coastal surveillance. Bruce Smith, Senior Deputy Director of Customs and Border Control also briefed the Council on the management of irregular migrants to the Cayman Islands and the asylum process.

Port Authority Director Paul Hurlston and the Acting Manager of Cruise Ops and Security Roylee Moore spoke about the results of the July International Ship and Port Facility Code Inspection and the Authority’s action plan to address areas that require further enhancement.

NSC chair Roper was pleased with the meeting outcomes. He said: “The NSC’s role, which it performs well, is to assess and update the high level security risks facing this jurisdiction. I am grateful for its collaborative approach.”