Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 14, 2016 (RSCNPF): The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (Special Victims Unit) is investigating two reports of rape in the Federation.
Both incidents occurred on Thursday (October 13). One in the western part of the island, and the other in the Basseterre area.
We urge residents to be alert, look out for each other in our communities and to report any suspicious activity or criminal activity they may be aware of. By working together in fighting crime we can make a difference.
The Police encourages residents to embrace proven security measures to reduce the risk of being the victim of a crime against a person. Here are a few safety measures to employ to reduce the risk:
On road personal safety tips:
– If you must walk alone, walk in well lit areas only. Avoid alleys, dark roads and shortcuts.
– If you feel you’re being followed stay in a lit area, and call for an escort.
– Never accept a lift from a stranger or someone you don’t know, even if you are running late, wet from rain or tired.
– Avoid passing stationary cars with their engines running and people sitting in them.
– Keep your mind on your surroundings – if you’re chatting on your mobile phone or listening to your iPod you won’t hear trouble approaching.
– Remind school age children to walk in groups, and never accept lift from strangers, even when raining.
To reduce your risk at home, employ the following:
– Ensure the locking devices on all windows and all locks on doors are fully operational. Replace if needed, the safety of your family is worth the investment.
– The use of an outside porch or motion detecting lights have been proven to be a good deterrent against criminals.
– Remove ladders, building blocks, tools, or any other item that can be used to give a burglar ‘height’ in their effort to break into your home or that can be used to gain entry from around the yard.
– Do not leave a spare key under the door mat, in a potted plant, or hidden for use by family members.
– Verify that all windows, doors and gates are locked prior to leaving your home for work, taking a nap or/and before retiring for the evening.
– Be alert of strangers, or persons in the neighbourhood observing you or your neighbour’s house.
To report any suspicious or criminal activity, citizens and residents are urged to call any Police Station, or Crime Stoppers, the anonymous hotline at 1-800-8477 (TIPS).
