Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica has officially announced the deployment of the Regional Security System (RSS) to assist local law enforcement in addressing the proliferation of illegal firearms. The announcement was made during a press conference on Monday, underscoring the government’s commitment to national security. Established in 1982, the RSS was created to mitigate regional threats and enhance the stability of member states. Skerrit emphasized that the decision to involve the RSS was made in consultation with the Chief of Police and the Minister of National Security, reflecting a unified approach to tackling this pressing issue. ‘The RSS is here to support our police in eradicating illegal firearms,’ Skerrit stated. ‘Anyone in possession of such weapons will face consequences.’ He highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that even a few incidents of violence can escalate rapidly, posing a significant threat to public safety. ‘The security of our citizens is our top priority,’ Skerrit declared. ‘An unsafe nation undermines all other efforts.’ The Prime Minister also outlined additional measures aimed at curbing the presence of illegal firearms, stressing that this issue takes precedence over other concerns, such as the illegal use of marijuana. ‘Our focus is on illegal firearms, and we will utilize every available resource to restore peace and normalcy,’ he affirmed. While acknowledging that recent violent incidents appear targeted, Skerrit reiterated the sanctity of human life, stating that no individual has the right to take another’s life under any circumstances.
