Good afternoon everyone.
I stand before you today with a heavy heart, deeply disturbed and disgusted by the recent surge in violence that has shaken our island.
To hear the news yesterday that two young men were fatally shot near Fort Scaur in Somerset shood me to my core. These gruesome murders brought the number of homicides in Bermuda in the past six weeks to 7. Seven murders in 6 weeks. These include the shocking discovery of four lifeless people inside their home in Pembroke; in a home located within my own constituency. There is no doubt that these events have left our community in a state of pain, sorrow and anxiety.
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of all those who have lost their lives. These senseless acts of violence have torn at the very fabric of our society, and we share in the grief and pain felt by those who knew and loved these individuals. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time.
As the Bermuda Police Service investigates these incidents, I want to assure the public that the Ministry of National Security fully supports their efforts and that the police have our full support, including whatever resources they may require to bring those responsible to justice.
However, we cannot do this alone. We need the community's help. I know you have heard me say this before, but the message must be repeated at this crucial time: If you have any information, no matter how significant you think it may be, please come forward. Your courage can make a difference. The police service cannot solve these crimes without your support. No police service can.
I understand the reluctance and fear that may exist within our community, but it is vital for the safety and well-being of all that we stand together against this violence. The resilience of the Bermudian people is well-known, and now, more than ever, we must rely on that community strength to put an end to this scourge.
We must break the silence and overcome the fear that prevents us from providing information that can assist in bringing the perpetrators of these heinous acts to justice. If you are hesitant to speak directly to the police, you can call the confidential Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800- 8477. This hotline is staffed by people located overseas, ensuring your anonymity and security.
I also want to take this opportunity to recognise the efforts of our essential service workers. They have been under pressure and on the front lines of these incidents. We know that theirs is a traumatic job when confronted with these incidents and I thank them profusely for the manner in which they perform their duties. Their dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed and are deeply appreciated by all of Bermuda.
Thank you.