Former Deputy Premier and PDM At-Largecandidate Sean Astwood has raised serious concerns about rising crime in theTurks and Caicos Islands (TCI), blaming the current government’s lack ofleadership, strategy, and effective border security measures. In a recentinterview with The SUN, Astwood criticized the administration forassuming office without a clear crime plan and failing to address theescalating violence. He highlighted their passive approach, noting the absenceof public reassurances from ministers and the Premier during crises, which hecalled a dereliction of leadership. While the Governor oversees lawenforcement, Astwood stressed that political leaders have a critical role inproviding strategic direction and taking ownership of the issue, stating, “Youcan’t campaign on being the solution to crime and then shirk responsibilityonce in office.”

Astwood also called attention to theadministration’s neglect of border security, which he believes has allowedillegal weapons, drugs, and undocumented individuals to flow into the countryunchecked. He noted the government’s failure to invest in criticalinfrastructure like radars, drones, and integrated border management systemsthat could prevent illegal landfalls. Drawing on past successes during histenure, Astwood proposed adopting advanced surveillance technology andimplementing a more collaborative approach among law enforcement agencies tocombat crime effectively. He warned that gaps in border control pose asignificant threat to public safety and national stability, urging immediateand comprehensive action.

In addressing the root causes of crime,Astwood emphasized the importance of socio-economic initiatives, such as jobcreation and youth development programs. He criticized the government forabandoning the PDM's trade school initiative, which he argued would equip youngpeople with skills and opportunities to become entrepreneurs or enter theworkforce. He also called for a return to community policing, where officersactively engage with residents to build trust and cooperation. Astwoodconcluded by criticizing the government for boasting of economic surpluseswhile failing to invest in crime prevention and community safety. Withelections approaching, his strong critique of the administration’s handling ofcrime could resonate with voters seeking tangible solutions to one of thenation’s most pressing issues.