In a move to strengthen the nation’s internal security, Prime Minister and Minister for National Security, Philip J. Pierre, has announced the immediate provision of bulletproof vests for every officer of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF). The initiative, authorized on Monday, underscores the government’s commitment to officer safety amid rising national concerns over violent crime.
“This morning, I authorised the purchase of bulletproof vests and special belts for the police,” Prime Minister Pierre stated. “Hopefully, every member of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force should have access to a bulletproof vest and a special belt for the armour, as requested by the Commissioner of Police.”
The decision follows a direct appeal from the Police Commissioner and signals a more proactive approach to equipping law enforcement with the necessary tools to confront modern-day security threats.
Beyond officer protection, the government is also addressing longstanding logistical challenges in the prison system. Prime Minister Pierre confirmed that a new prison escort vehicle, custom-built for secure inmate transport, will be delivered this Friday.
“This vehicle has been specially prepared so that the transport of prisoners from the Bordelais institution to court will be more easily facilitated and safer,” he noted.
The dual announcement comes at a critical time for the island’s justice and security system, offering both symbolic and practical reinforcement of the administration’s pledge to protect law enforcement personnel and improve the efficiency of criminal justice operations.
