Violent incidents targeting visitors like the one in Grand Case Sunday night (see related story) are bad news for the local hospitality industry. Every effort must be made to catch and sentence the perpetrators.
Equally important, increased police presence appears justified on both sides of the island, particularly in tourist hot-spots. Although respective law enforcement officials announced the usual enhanced surveillance for the high season, additional action may be in order.
The recent spate of burglaries on yachts in Simpson Bay led to joint steps including coordinated water-based patrols. Perhaps a similar land-based initiative is required, while the response to reported crimes could apparently be better and more victim-sensitive as well.
One thing authorities can do to help combat illegal firearm possession is declare high-risk zones where people are stopped and searched without so-called probable cause. Non-compliant vehicles including quads, motorbikes and scooters should be removed from the public road immediately in the process.
Some might consider such reactions over the top, but they must keep in mind that the tourism economy – whether directly or indirectly – provides the livelihood of practically the entire population. As argued in this column earlier, temporarily infringing on certain civil liberties seems like an acceptable price to pay under the circumstances.
Security and safety are paramount. Drastic times call for drastic measures.
