The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) and the Saint Lucia Forensic Science Laboratory received a significant boost in resources today, as the government handed over a fleet of new vehicles, bulletproof vests, and a state-of-the-art mobile forensic response unit at a ceremony held at the RSLPF Academy.
The investment is intended to improve officer safety, strengthen crime scene response, and demonstrate the government’s commitment to frontline law enforcement.
Acting Police Commissioner Ronald Phillip said the arrival of body armor comes at a critical time.
“Provision of body armor, fit for purpose and tailored to today's realities, could not have come at a better time. Body armor does more than protect. It boosts morale, it gives officers the confidence to act decisively, it provides that vital line of defense between law enforcement and criminal elements who in some cases, have little regard for life, including the lives of our officers,” he stated.
Minister for Crime Prevention, Jeremiah Norbert, stressed the importance of proper maintenance of police assets, noting that too many service vehicles have been left idle due to damage.
“A few weeks ago I went to see work in Bexon, and to be quite honest with you, it was really disheartening to see the number of police vehicles, most of them 2023, 2024 brand new, that are sitting idly on an open lot because of some sort of damage. I know the nature of the work means mishaps will happen every now and then, but we must do better,” he said.
The new mobile forensic unit, described as a “comprehensive field laboratory,” will allow crime scene specialists to conduct more advanced work on-site.
“This vehicle is a comprehensive mobile forensic unit designed for swift deployment. It will be utilised by our staff to respond in the field in ways we were not able to before, to sample bulk seizures and to provide additional support and resources at major crime scenes when requested,” explained Fernanda Henry, Director of Forensic Science Services.
The new resources are expected to enhance operational efficiency, improve public safety, and restore confidence in the police force’s ability to confront rising crime.