The Tribune

TWO FNM MPs who represent areas that have seen murders this week criticised National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage for his “seemingly dismissive” comments on crime.

In a joint statement, Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn and St Anne’s MP Hubert Chipman expressed “alarm” at the level of crime in the areas they represent.

Blair resident Andre Cartwright was killed by gunmen during a home invasion Tuesday morning. That night, Alton Davis was shot and killed while riding his bicycle on Adderley Street in Fox Hill.

“Mr Cartwright was killed as he sought to protect his family,” the statement said. “His actions were heroic.

“In response to this tragedy the Minister of National Security Dr B J Nottage stated that, ‘home invasions are not new.’ This was a particularly insensitive response in light of the grief and pain of Mr Cartwright’s family and friends, and in light of the fear this has raised throughout New Providence, and particularly in Blair and the surrounding neighbourhoods.

“As the members of Parliament for Montagu and St Anne’s we are alarmed by the level of criminal violence in these areas, especially as we approach the holiday seasons.

“What is disturbing is that home invasions and robberies may lead to the killing of citizens and residents who are now worrying not only about their possessions and valuables, but more importantly about their very lives and that of their loved ones.

“All of this is a deeply worrying situation, which the minister of national security responded to in a seemingly dismissive fashion.”

The MPs urged Dr Nottage to do all he can to address home invasions and armed robberies and focus on action instead of talk.