Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet has delivered a scathing critique of the Philip J. Pierre administration’s handling of crime, accusing the government of being silent, disorganized and soft on the island’s growing security crisis. In a televised national address on August 14, Chastanet argued that violent crime is not only destroying lives but also placing immense strain on the country’s healthcare system.
“Every shooting, every stabbing, every violent crime sends victims to our hospitals, consuming limited medical supplies, operating room time, and the expertise of our doctors and nurses who should be delivering babies and caring for our elderly. Crime doesn’t just destroy the lives of its direct victims; it puts every Saint Lucian’s health and well-being at risk,” he explained.
Chastanet accused the government of failing to prioritize national security, pointing out that no minister was appointed to the portfolio for months after taking office.
He condemned the disbanding of the police K9 unit, the “mysterious poisoning” of canine officer Tyson, and the lack of maintenance for police scanners, which he claimed has left officers “operating blind in the streets.” He also faulted the administration for allowing the UWP-era network of more than 1,200 CCTV cameras to fall into disrepair.
The former prime minister outlined a comprehensive plan to combat crime if the UWP returns to power, promising to modernize and better equip the police force, restore the K9 unit, and revive the CCTV network with updated technology. He also pledged to tighten border controls through mandatory vessel monitoring systems, enhanced customs operations, and polygraph testing for customs and police officers to root out corruption.
Chastanet further proposed reforms to the justice system aimed at reducing case backlogs and ensuring the proper handling of evidence.
This would include fast-tracking trials, introducing bench trials, and establishing a dedicated CSI unit to ensure that collected evidence is properly secured and never goes missing.
“We demand accountability. No one, regardless of their position or connections, will be above the law,” he declared, contrasting his party’s approach with what he described as the current government’s willingness to bring “known criminal elements into cabinet.”
Chastanet insisted that government service must be reserved for those of “impeccable character” and said the UWP’s approach would be aggressive, technology-driven, and free from political interference.
Earlier this week Prime Minister and Minister for National Security Philip J. Pierre rejected the Opposiyion’s criticism of his government’s response to rising gun crime, reaffirming a zero-tolerance stance and pledging continued investment in law enforcement. Pierre highlighted the recruitment of over 200 new police officers, upgrades to policing infrastructure, and procurement of vehicles and resources, while condemning the politicisation of crime.
He emphasised that recent killings are linked to gang activity and that the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is intensifying operations to address the violence.