The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

SENIOR Assistant Commissioner of Police Emrick Seymour yesterday expressed concern over the significant increase in car thefts and stolen vehicles and the “proliferation” of illegal guns in Grand Bahama.

Although he did not provide any recent figures and statistics, Mr Seymour reported that police are seeing an “unprecedented proliferation” of stealing from vehicles and stolen vehicle complaints.

He stressed that police investigations have revealed that a vast majority of the incidents were due to driver/owner negligence and could have been prevented.

“We are appealing to drivers not to leave valuables in plain sight inside their vehicles, not to leave their keys in the ignition or their vehicles running while unattended because that invites theft,” he said.

Mr Seymour stressed that leaving a vehicle running while unattended is an offence. He said that criminals are lurking, waiting for an opportunity to steal and rob from individuals.

In an effort to reduce such incidents, ACP Seymour is urging the public to also take precautionary measures by installing car alarms and parking in well-lit areas. “We are doing the best we can as police officers, but we want you as members of the public to exercise due care and concern for your own personal property,” he said.

Turning to the issue of illegal guns, Mr Seymour said there is also a proliferation of firearms on Grand Bahama, particularly among young men. “We were able to take a .380 firearm off the streets today (Tuesday). The possession of a firearm and handgun is illegal, except with the expressed authority of the Firearm Licencing Authority, who is the Commissioner of Police. All other weapons are, in fact, illegal,” he said.

He urged members of the public to report individuals who they know or suspect are in possession of illegal firearms. Individuals who come across a firearm should also report it to the police, he said.

Mr Seymour also expressed concerns about littering, which is also an offence and carries a $250 fine.