Police presence to be increased in Ottley Hall

After two recent Ottley Hall murders in just one month, the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) is strengthening its presence in the area.

Residents can expect to see more police officers stationed there, stepped up patrols and more stop-and-search operations.

The RSVGPF’s decision comes after 45-year-old chauffeur Andy “Fox” Garrick was shot in the chest last Thursday, May 11, in Ottley Hall, while making his way home. He was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) where he later died.

A month earlier, on April 12, 34-year-old Shemeal Bowens, a mother of five, met her end in a hail of gunfire in Ottley Hall, while sitting at the side of the road.

Reports are that two gunmen shot at her brother, who was in the same area and when they missed, they turned the deadly force on her. She died on the spot.

In an interview with SEARCHLIGHT on Wednesday, head of Crime and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Frankie Joseph said that although he could not disclose the constabulary’s plans for the area, they have instituted temporary measures.

He said that a few years ago, there was a major group rivalry between some Ottley Hall and Edinboro residents that got bloody, but currently there is no upsurge in crime in the area.

However, he said he could not dismiss or downplay the murders of Garrick and Bowens.

Joseph also called on Ottley Hall residents who have information to share it with police.

“If you do not feel confident in giving a particular police station or a particular police officer any information, you do not have to, because I believe that every citizen in St Vincent and the Grenadines have a police officer that they believe that they have confidence in, so look for that officer or the office of the hierarchy of the organization is always open and no one has to literally make an appointment to see us.”

The ACP also assured residents that he could be reached at his number 456-1339, adding that he does not need to know the identity of the caller.