Cash for gold concern

Christmas Message from Commissioner of Police Darwin Dottin
It is a tradition for the Royal Barbados Police Force to prepare and send greeting cards at Christmas to friends, well-wishers and agencies with which it has a relationship. This has continued in spite of more instant methods of communication.
Each year there is an image on the card that highlights some aspect of our work. This year we feature one of our community officers interacting with a group of students. Their smiles display the exuberance and happiness that we associate with youth. It is the outlook/spirit that we associate with Christmas, a season of good cheer.
This year there has been much to dampen our spirits and challenge us. Nonetheless, there is much to be thankful for. Our country continues to be recognised for its relative peace and security. Indeed, as citizens of this country, we have come to expect this.
It is understandable therefore that there is public disquiet when there are spurts of criminal activity.
Looking back, it was a busy year for us in the Force, particularly during the months of July and August when there was a spurt of aggravated burglaries and homicides. On reflection, I think the response of the Force was commendable. Those persons who were responsible for this criminal activity were swiftly arrested and are now being brought to account.  
We continue to work with communities across Barbados to address citizen safety and reduce in particular the incidence of burglary, which is our most prolific volume crime. It is also noticeable that we continue to be challenged by the cash-for-gold trade. This activity is responsible for significant criminal victimisation. It is no comfort that many countries here in the region and further afield are experiencing similar problems.     
We have held a series of meetings with legitimate jewellers and also made appropriate recommendations for measures to regulate this activity. We expect that there will be an early response in the new year.
Personal safety is a concern for all of us at this time of year. It is noticeable that people generally, as they begin to enjoy the season of Christmas, lose their inhibitions and sometimes do not exhibit the care that is required and as a consequence provide opportunities for criminal acts.
This year we have again staged Operation Yuletide. It is a crime prevention initiative designed to provide a visible police presence in busy shopping areas and commercial centres. Our patrols are also paying attention to residential communities right across the country. This has been well received by Barbadians. However, it is important that you play your part. We urge you to take sensible precautions in protecting your home and valuables.
It is a sad reality that this time of relaxation and celebration is too often marred by serious injury or death on our roads. The best Christmas gift that you can give your friends and loved ones is to avoid such a tragedy. Please exhibit a sense of responsibility and drive with care and attention and with due regard for all road-users. If you are celebrating and plan to consume alcoholic beverages, drink in moderation or chose a designated driver.
On behalf of the men and women of the Royal Barbados Police Force, I wish to thank Barbadians for their support and encouragement during the year. We have also noted your concerns and criticism when we failed to meet the high standards that you expect of us. We pledge to do better.
Finally, let me take this opportunity to wish all of you a very safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.