Police report decline in major crimes ahead of Carnival
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is reporting that several major crimes have declined as preparations for Carnival intensify. Acting Deputy Commissioner Dr Mashama Sealy is asking everyone to help keep the festive season safe and peaceful. She pointed out that recent statistics show steady progress, with better crime numbers in the first half of […] The article Police report decline in major crimes ahead of Carnival is from St. Lucia Times.
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The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is reporting that several major crimes have declined as preparations for Carnival intensify.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Dr Mashama Sealy is asking everyone to help keep the festive season safe and peaceful. She pointed out that recent statistics show steady progress, with better crime numbers in the first half of the year.
From 1 January to 10 July 2026, compared to the same time last year, burglaries dropped by 23%, robberies by 5%, and drug offences by 21%. Police also saw a 21% drop in theft from people and a 19% fall in sexual offences.
Sealy said the figures highlight the impact of ongoing law enforcement efforts and public cooperation. “The reductions we are seeing in several major crime categories show what can be achieved through the hard work of our officers and the continued support of you, the public,” she said.
Police have increased efforts to target illegal firearms. From 1 January to 10 July, officers recovered 39 illegal guns, along with ammunition and gun parts.
Sealy said these seizures are part of a larger plan to stop violent crime. She said the recoveries “reflect the force’s sustained efforts to remove illegal firearms from circulation and prevent violent crime before it occurs”.
As Carnival gets closer, police have put a full security plan in place to keep order across the island. Officers will be out in force, with more foot and mobile patrols, traffic controls and special teams in key spots.
These measures will focus on parade routes, big event venues, and communities where large crowds are expected. Special teams will be ready to respond quickly to any incidents, and ongoing operations aim to prevent crime during the celebrations.
Sealy is appealing to the public to act responsibly during the festivities.
“As we prepare to celebrate carnival, I ask everyone to make safety a priority, respect one another, avoid confrontations, and make responsible decisions,” she said. She also urged revellers to exercise caution when consuming alcohol, adding, “If you choose to drink, do so responsibly.”
The public is encouraged to stay alert, look out for each other, and follow instructions from police and event staff.
She spoke about the cultural importance of Carnival, reminding everyone of what it means to the country. “Carnival is one of Saint Lucia’s proudest traditions,” she said, adding that the goal is for the event to be remembered “for its music, creativity, and culture, and not for violence or disorder”.
Police have assured the public that they are ready to keep everyone safe during the celebrations. They also wished both locals and visitors a safe and enjoyable Carnival.
The article Police report decline in major crimes ahead of Carnival is from St. Lucia Times.
