Flout the law and expect to get busted this Easter weekend

Good day, I am Acting Assistant Commissioner Martin Weekes and with me is Acting Superintendent Na’imah Astwood

The upcoming Good Friday holiday and Easter weekend will see a number of events and festive activities at various locations across the Island. The Bermuda Police Service takes this opportunity to advise the public on a number of matters to ensure a peaceful and safe time during this period.

During the holiday weekend the public will notice a visible police presence as patrols attend the various community events throughout the Island. The Police Mobile Command Centre will be deployed at the Southampton Oval car park in support of various activities planned for that location.

There is a policing plan for the wider Island and Mrs. Astwood will now give us details of that.

Acting Superintendent Astwood - In line with our strategic intents of combatting guns, gangs and violence I can reassure you that a robust policing plan is in place.

This plan includes the re-assignment and re-alignment of police resources both armed and unarmed across the Service. We will also be supported by our Bermuda Police Reserves.

The public can expect to see higher than normal levels of police visibility. We apologise in advance and seek the patience of law-abiding citizens who may feel the effects of our pro-active policing initiatives which can be expected throughout the weekend.

In particular the Bermuda Police Service will be enforcing our Selective Targeting Enforcement Programme (STEP) as it relates to road traffic offences; such as the use of cellphones whilst driving, impaired driving and speeding. As such we are asking members of the public to ensure a safe and enjoyable day for everyone by adhering to the rules of the road.

We will also be focusing our attention on deterring and arresting those persons who are insistent on disrupting the festivities of others with their acts of violence and criminality.

Anyone who participates in any kind of anti-social activity can expect no sympathy and no warning. You will be arrested and dealt with immediately.

Our success can only be achieved by working together and through the assistance of the community at large. We ask that you be vigilant. If you see something suspicious please call us so that we can mobilize the appropriate response. 

Take note of motorcycle or car numbers that are being used by persons who are acting suspiciously. You can contact our direct police line on 295-0011 or Crime Stoppers on 800-8477.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Weekes - In conclusion, we would like to urge the public to work together in the community spirit to make sure that this is a safe weekend.

During this period, we usually get a high number of noise complaints, and we ask that you work together with your neighbours to prevent any disputes and resolve any issues with minimal police interference.

In addition, we ask that you keep the roads safe.  If you’re going to drink, make sure that you have a designated driver. Do not drink and drive. Work with us to make it a safe holiday weekend. Thank you.