The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

The Minister of Tourism is “deeply concerned” after a minibus driver was shot and killed in downtown Nassau last week, warning that such incidents are laying the foundation “for the total destruction of our economy”.

Obie Wilchcombe told Tribune Business: “I am deeply concerned because we have to recognise that if we are categorised as a destination where crime is high, then not withstanding that it might be domestic crime, it hurts your destination.

“What we have to do is work even harder. We have to continue to call upon the people, the church, the schools, and we have to have a change of attitude. We have to introduce a revolution of peace and love, and if we can’t do that then we must appreciate that we will do more damage to ourselves.”

Hans Neely, a transportation supervisor at Stuart Cove’s, was reportedly shot while driving a bus in the area of East Street north, near Prince George’s Wharf, an area normally populated by tourists, cruise ship passengers and downtown shoppers.

The Downtown Nassau Partnership (DNP), in a statement following the incident, said: “The Downtown Nassau Partnership (DNP) has as its mandate the revitalisation of downtown, which means to maintain a safe, clean and fun environment. This incident is certainly not the norm for downtown. Over the past few years, there has not been an incident of this sort occurring in our city centre.”

It added: “Business and property owners are certainly concerned about protection of the city for use and enjoyment by residents and visitors alike; for commerce, dining, touring and its historic charm.

“DNP will continue to support our key stakeholders, the Royal Bahamas Police Force and, in particular the Tourism Police Unit, in efforts to prevent or avoid this from happening again, and help to provide the safe environment which everyone can enjoy.”