The Royal Anguilla Police Force will soon be in a position to find concealed firearms, possibly prosecute more offenders for illegal possession, and better protect the security of the island and its citizens.
This is being made possible by a donation of US$8,000 from Scotiabank Anguilla Limited. The money will go towards the purchase of one specially-trained dog from the United States and the training of a handler. It is all part of a new police initiative to develop a canine unit and to upgrade the crime-solving capabilities of the Force.
A cheque for the above amount was presented to Commissioner of Police, Rudolph Proctor, at Police Headquarters on Wednesday, by Mrs Pamela Herbert-Daniel, Managing Director of Scotiabank. Mr Proctor said a number of businesses had been approached, and had pledged to assist the Police with the canine unit, but only Scotiabank had actually come forward.
“Now that we have the money, an officer is to go off for training,” he told reporters. “So far, the officer we have identified is Constable Darrell Gumbs.” According to Mr Proctor, additional funding will be needed for kennels, a special vehicle for the canine unit as well as food and medicines. “There are other institutions out there which have pledged to make a contribution, but so far nothing has been received from them. We hope that when you, the media, put this story out that they might hear our appeal and respond,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of Scotiabank, Mrs Herbert-Daniel said her institution was observing its 25th Anniversary in Anguilla and was willing to answer any call for commitment to give back to the island in a tangible manner.
“The gun and ammunition detection K9 will assist in reducing gun crime – something which is important to everyone who lives and works in Anguilla,” the bank’s Managing Director said. “We are all aware that violence can create an atmosphere of fear among businesses, undermine growth, and disrupt community and social life.”
She went on: “I would like to take this opportunity to ask other businesses to come on board, with Scotiabank Anguilla Limited, to ensure that the K9 unit can have the necessary funding to effectively carry out its duties.” She congratulated the Commissioner “for his vision and dedication in seeking out new and innovative ways of maintaining security in our country.”
