CID gets new equipment from United States, CBI

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) is now equipped with an Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).{{more}}

The equipment was officially commissioned yesterday, Monday, December 9, compliments the United States Embassy and the Caribbean Basin Initiative programme.

And according to Christopher Sandrolini, Charges d’Affaires at the US Embassy, it is anticipated that this piece of equipment will help increase security across the region.

Similar pieces of equipment have already been given to neighbouring territories, including St Kitts/Nevis, St Lucia, Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda.

And according to the US official, word is that the equipment has already been instrumental in the capture of a person of interest in St Lucia.

“This is a quick example of how the machine works,” he said.

But not only will the piece of equipment improve security, it is expected law enforcement officers will be able to cross reference records for information throughout the region.

“The system will enhance the fingerprinting process,” Sandrolini said.

The system is already operating fully and links police stations in Chateaubelair, Georgetown and the Grenadines to the Central Police Station in Kingstown and has already aided in solving one cold case, which involved the theft of a firearm during a burglary, Sandrolini said.

Advisor to the Ministry of National Security Sir Vincent Beache said that he was particularly grateful to the US for the assistance given in the area of security.

“Security is, in my opinion, the most important part of any administration,” Beache said.

He further explained that without proper security, rampant crime had the potential to hamper development, as potential investors would find it difficult to want to invest.

“We are grateful; we understand what has been happening and we are seeing that crime has increased over the years and while most are domestic or drug related, they are crimes and any method that can be used is very well appreciated,” Beache said.

Forensics is now the new methodology used in crime fighting, he continued.

“We appreciate this very much and look forward to the effective use of the machinery,” Beache said.(DD)