Amid a surge in gun violence, Philip J Pierre defends crime policy and blames UWP for politicising the crisis.
CASTRIES, St Lucia — Prime Minister and Minister for National Security Philip J Pierre has rejected opposition criticism of his administration’s handling of the recent spike in gun-related crimes, insisting his government is committed to a zero-tolerance approach and substantial investment in law enforcement.
Pierre’s comments follow a series of fatal shootings that police have linked to gang activity. The United Workers Party (UWP) has accused the administration of failing to stem the violence, but Pierre argued that the opposition is exploiting the issue for political gain.
“You will never find me… ever on any platform heralding crime or accusing people of directly causing crime. That’s not my style,” Pierre said. “When I was in opposition, I called for zero tolerance towards crime. I have never condoned any criminal activity. I have nothing to hide when it comes to crime.”
The Prime Minister said his crime strategy prioritises strengthening the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) through recruitment, resources, and operational independence. According to Pierre, more than 200 new officers have been recruited or are in the process of joining the force, an initiative he said previous United Workers Party (UWP) administrations failed to implement.
Pierre also highlighted long-term investments in policing infrastructure, noting the construction of multiple police stations since 1997, the completion of the southern headquarters in Vieux Fort, and ongoing work on a northern headquarters in Gros Islet. He added that vehicle procurement and officer training remain ongoing priorities.
The Prime Minister accused the opposition of politicising crime for electoral advantage. “Crime is a serious matter. It should not be bastardised by people with straight political motives,” Pierre said. “No Prime Minister would ever want a country where there is crime or murder.”
His remarks come as police intensify operations targeting organised criminal networks. Investigators say the latest spate of gun-related killings appears deliberate and patterned, reflecting escalating gang rivalries.
The RSLPF has pledged to ramp up patrols, increase community engagement, and coordinate intelligence-sharing with regional security partners in a bid to stem the violence.
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