The Tribune

THE Free National Movement’s candidate for the St Barnabas constituency lamented the recent robbery of three women employees of the Parliamentary Registration Department, saying it highlights the country’s ongoing fight against crime.

In a statement released on Thursday, Shanendon Cartwright said: “The recent robbery of several Parliamentary Registration Department personnel at the St Barnabas Church registration station is deeply disturbing and highlights our nation’s ongoing battle with a stubborn criminal element fixated on upending the Bahamian way of life.

“During our walks and conversations throughout the St Barnabas constituency, crime continues to be a primary concern for residents and their families. The Free National Movement is committed to arresting our vexing crime problem with the implementation of strategies that have been shared with the Bahamian people over the past months.

“We applaud the tireless efforts of the entire staff of the Parliamentary Registration Department and extend our deepest regrets and empathy to their colleagues involved in the unfortunate dramatic ordeal of this week. We join Bahamians everywhere in condemning these cowardly acts and urge the government very intently to ensure the safeguard of the Parliamentary Registration staff, the Bahamian public and the integrity our democratic process,” he also said.

According to police, three women were robbed shortly after 8pm on Tuesday as they were preparing to leave the voter’s card distribution centre at the St Barnabas Church Activity Centre. Police said the women workers were approached by two men, one armed with a handgun, who robbed them of cash and a cell phone before escaping on foot.

Minister of National Security Dr Bernard Nottage told reporters on Wednesday that he was “disappointed” that the incident happened and said had Royal Bahamas Police Force officers, who were usually stationed at the registration centre on Baillou Hill Road, been present the criminals would not have entered the property.

However, Dr Nottage said the unfortunate incident will in no way compromise the electoral process as no voter’s cards, counterfoils or seals were stolen.

Dr Nottage has ministerial responsibility for the Parliamentary Registration Department.