27 Jan 2018 | 11:55 PM UTC
Barbados: Police to receive additional powers
Lawmakers to expand powers of police to search individuals and property during curfews; adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities
Event
Lawmakers in Barbados are expected to pass a bill that will expand the powers of police. The bill will grant police the power to implement two-day curfews in response to violence and to search individuals during curfews. Police would also have authority to search property without a warrant in any area under curfew between 08:00 and 18:00 (local time).
Context
Both domestic and international officials have recently noted an alarming rise in the crime rate in Barbados. In August, members of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce noted that crime was beginning to affect the island's vital tourism industry. The US Department of State also gave Barbados a crime rating of "high" amid the rise in robberies and other crimes. At least 30 murders were reported in 2017.
Advice
Individuals in Barbados are advised to adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities, to remain vigilant when in public, and to report any suspicious behavior to the police.
