Opposition in Grenada raises concerns regarding gun violence

Popular opposition leader Dr Keith Mitchell has been one amongst many voices in Grenada who have raised concerns regarding gun violence in the nation. Mitchell has stated that Grenada requires a government that consists of proactive leaders who can tackle the issue with conviction.

Recent events in the nation, which have put communities in Grenada at risk, have affected the narrative surrounding gun violence. A video said to have been recorded in Grand Anse last week, showed a tense situation, with reports of gunshots being heard in the vicinity.

As the political leader of the New National Party (NNP), Mitchell issued a statement regarding the rise in gun violence in Grenada, “When the shadow of crime and gun violence is beginning to stretch across our beautiful Grenada, the call for strong leadership echoes louder than ever.”

Mitchell added that the situation in Grenada is at such a juncture, that it needs attention, action and a degree of empathy.

He also stated that the lack of a statement and appropriate action from the current leaders is allowing the issue of gun violence to get worse. As much is evident from recent events which have reinforced calls for proactive and thoughtful leadership.

Mitchell remains adamant that focusing solely on the influx of illegal guns is not the solution and stated that the government must look at the underlying issues, which show a discrepancy in terms of the manner in which the nation is managed by the administration.

According to the opposition, reinforcing the border and strengthening legal frameworks to support law enforcement against criminals is just the tip of the iceberg and the incumbent government must provide law enforcement personnel with the skills and the equipment required to tackle this problem head on.

Mitchell added that for the sake of National Security, Grenada must have a decisive leader with the ability to stand in the face of difficult situations, building a better nation for its people in the process.

It is interesting that Keith Mitchell has delineated his stance on the matter so close to the Royal Grenada Police Force’s (RGPF) press conference to address the rising crime wave in Grenada.

The fact that three prisoners escaped custody recently and were found in St Vincent and the Grenadines, does not help the situation either. The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) will look to address these issues at the press conference, which will be attended by the Commissioner of Police Don McKenzie and the Assistant Commissioner of Police Vannie Curwen.