NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle said yesterday that the recent increase in robberies has been expected given the gradual reopening of the country.
Rolle was responding to questions from reporters on the apparent uptick in robberies following his Commissioner’s Outreach Day.
“We were in a lockdown essentially…businesses were closed. I said some time ago that we know when the country opens up for business and commerce then you have targets,” he said.
“We have some persons in this community for whatever reason, [who] want to resort to taking people things.
“I want to assure the community that our police force is going to be there as much as, and as far as possible.
“We want to prevent that type of behavior. Armed robbery is not acceptable. I don’t care how you put it.”
He continued: “When the country opens up, then there are targets and so you have persons who are willing and prepared to go out and commit a crime.
“There’s nothing the police force or anybody can do with somebody who is willing to commit a crime.
“What the police can do is try to encourage persons to make it difficult and also to prevent the opportunity.”
Rolle said police have been going into businesses to demonstrate ways to safeguard them.
“We are concerned with every crime, he said.
“We will continue to be concerned…Nonetheless, we ask people to be cognizant of their environment and if you see things that look suspicious, you call the police and we will respond.”
He added that crime is not solely a police issue.
According to the commissioner, everyone has a duty to ensure the safety of the public.
“As police officers, we are paid simply to give time and attention to this,” the commissioner said.
“That’s something that everybody has an obligation to ensure — safety for all, in the interest of the community.
“But we lead this and as the leaders, you will see some more of this, trying to encourage our community people to get more involved.”
