Royal Grenada Police Force Achieves Notable Milestone
The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) recorded a 1.6% increase in reported crimes for 2024 compared to the previous year, but is celebrating a notable achievement: a 74.8% crime solvency rate, the highest in recent years.
Acting Commissioner of Police Randy Connaught made the announcement during a ceremony to officially commission the new RGPF headquarters on The Carenage on Friday. He credited the milestone to intelligence-led policing and strengthened community partnerships.
“I am delighted to report that last year’s crime statistics have been computed and analysed. We have achieved a 74.8% solvency rate in overall crime,” said Connaught. “This is a testament to the dedication and discipline of our officers and the collaborative efforts of our community policing initiatives.”
Record Year in Firearm Confiscations and Drug-Related Enforcement
The Acting Commissioner also highlighted a record year in firearm confiscations, with 61 illegal guns seized—nine of them surrendered during a weapons amnesty period. He further noted that drug-related enforcement surged in 2024, with more than double the amount of narcotics seized compared to 2023.
Although the RGPF did not provide the total quantity of drugs confiscated, previous press releases revealed multimillion-dollar seizures. For example, on May 2, officers from the Drug Squad intercepted two separate cocaine hauls weighing a combined 27.2 kilograms, valued at an estimated $2.72 million.
Violent Crime and Ceremony Attendees
On the issue of violent crime, Connaught reported that of the 18 homicides in 2024, 17 have already been solved. “We have cleared up all but one of the 18 homicides reported last year,” he stated. “That is not to say we are not aware of who the suspect is; it is just beyond our reach.”
The ceremony was attended by Governor-General Dame Cecile La Grenade and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, who also serves as Minister for National Security.
Future of the RGPF
Looking ahead, Connaught emphasized that the future of the RGPF hinges on continued reform and professionalism. “Our transformative outlook will have a direct impact on the quality of service. This will be determined through assertiveness, greater efficiency, higher professional and ethical standards—and most of all, humility and respect for each and every citizen,” he said.
As Grenada begins a new chapter in national security, the RGPF is aiming not only to maintain its improved solvency rate, but to deepen trust and cooperation with the public it serves.
Conclusion
The Royal Grenada Police Force has made significant strides in reducing crime and improving its solvency rate. With a focus on intelligence-led policing, community partnerships, and professionalism, the RGPF is poised to continue making progress in the years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the crime solvency rate achieved by the RGPF in 2024?
A: The RGPF achieved a 74.8% crime solvency rate in 2024.
Q: How many illegal guns were seized by the RGPF in 2024?
A: The RGPF seized 61 illegal guns in 2024, with nine of them surrendered during a weapons amnesty period.
Q: What is the future focus of the RGPF?
A: The future focus of the RGPF is on continued reform and professionalism, with a emphasis on assertiveness, greater efficiency, higher professional and ethical standards, and humility and respect for each and every citizen.