CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – May 27, 2026 – The small Caribbean island of Nevis is celebrating a landmark public safety achievement, with zero violent criminal incidents recorded across the territory in the first five months of 2026. That progress has been credited to the consistent, dedicated work of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) Nevis Division, according to Nevis Premier Mark Brantley, who has highlighted the island’s standing as one of the safest destinations in the region for both local residents and international visitors.
Brantley made the announcement during his monthly press conference on May 26, framing the sharp decline in violent crime as a collective win for law enforcement, the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), and the island’s community. “Crime has dropped so dramatically over recent years, and this milestone is a source of pride for every person who calls Nevis home,” Brantley said. “Through May of this year, we have not recorded a single violent incident. We are grateful for this progress and hopeful it continues. Today, Nevisians feel far safer walking out after dark than they did five or ten years ago – that change is tangible, and it is thanks to our police force.”
The Premier’s remarks came just over a week after he served as the featured speaker at the RSCNPF Nevis Division’s 18th Annual Constables Award Ceremony and Dinner, held May 16 at the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park. The event is held annually to recognize exceptional service from officers stationed across Nevis, and Brantley used the occasion to extend public gratitude on behalf of all residents of St. Kitts and Nevis.
“I am incredibly proud of the work this police force does every day. Their dedication, loyalty, and commitment to protecting our communities deserve to be celebrated,” Brantley told attendees. “This ceremony doesn’t just honor individual excellence – it shines a light on the collective strength of every officer who puts on a uniform. Too often, we take their work for granted: they rush toward danger during disasters, risk their lives to save vulnerable community members, and confront dangerous criminals to keep the rest of us safe. I sleep easier at night knowing these men and women are standing guard, protecting and serving the people of Nevis and St. Kitts.”
In addition to praising the full force, Brantley recognized Police Commissioner James Sutton and the RSCNPF High Command for their leadership, with special shoutout to Nevis Divisional Commander Superintendent Alonzo Carty, who Brantley said has continued to lead the local division with exceptional distinction. Brantley also reaffirmed the NIA’s ongoing commitment to supporting local law enforcement as they work to maintain the island’s low crime rate.
The 2026 ceremony also marked a historic first for the annual awards program: WPC Shaneke Clarke made history as the first female officer to be named Constable of the Year in the 18-year history of the honor, a milestone that adds an extra layer of significance to this year’s event.