Police, stakeholders form working group to tackle crime in Soufriere

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has launched a coordinated, multi-stakeholder initiative to strengthen safety and security in Soufriere, bringing together government agencies, tourism interests and community organisations to develop practical solutions to crime and violence in the town.

The initiative follows a high-level stakeholder meeting held on June 11, during which members of the RSLPF High Command met with Parliamentary Representative for Soufriere, Emma Hippolyte, representatives of the Soufriere accommodation sector, the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation and civil society organisations.

According to the RSLPF, discussions focused on the status of ongoing efforts to address security and safety concerns affecting the town, as well as the support being provided by the police force to improve public safety.

A major outcome of the meeting was the agreement to establish a multi-stakeholder working group dedicated to developing practical, coordinated and sustainable solutions to crime and violence in the Soufriere area.

The newly formed group convened its first official meeting on June 24, bringing together representatives from the RSLPF, the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation, the Ministries of Equity and Crime Prevention, civil society organisations and the National Youth Council.

Before the formal meeting, members conducted community walkthroughs in Palmiste, Market Road and Baron’s Drive, where they engaged directly with residents to hear their concerns, gain firsthand insight into the challenges affecting their daily lives and learn about the improvements they would like to see in their communities.

The information gathered during those visits informed a focused working session aimed at translating community feedback into practical strategies to reduce crime while improving safety and the overall quality of life in Soufriere.

The RSLPF said a comprehensive action plan is now being developed and, once finalised, will be submitted to the Commissioner of Police and Hippolyte for review and support.

The working group is scheduled to meet again on July 14 as partners continue efforts to implement practical, community-driven solutions through collaboration and public engagement.

The police force said it remains committed to working with stakeholders and residents to create a safer environment not only for the people of Soufriere but for all of Saint Lucia.

The article Police, stakeholders form working group to tackle crime in Soufriere is from St. Lucia Times.