The police say that they will vigorously pursue those involved in the “illegal trade” of trafficking persons in and out of Dominica via illegal means.
He said that despite efforts to prevent illegal entry and exit into Dominica, the police continue to receive numerous calls about individuals who enter the country illegally.
According to acting Deputy Chief of Police, Davidson Valerie, the police have made several arrests and four people have been convicted of entering Dominica illegally while others are pending trial and investigation.
“Eight boats have been seized for investigations. Out of the many people who were reported to have illegally entered into Dominica, four (4) have been convicted, six (6) are pending trial, and 22 are pending investigations,” he stated.
Valerie said that the police are reliably informed that individuals entering Dominica illegally are being protected by family and friends.
“Anyone who aids and abets another in the commission of illegal entry commits an offense and will be liable to prosecution in accordance with the law, the penalty of which is $3000,” he said. He stated further, that it is time that people accept responsibility for their actions.
The French territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique he explained have recorded a large number of COVID-19 cases, yet Dominicans allow families to enter the island illegally, knowing fully well that they are in violation of the protocols in place.
He disclosed that the most recent COVID-19 case allegedly came in illegally and was seen attending various events and associating with several people, “thus endangering the lives of many.”
The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) he stated will work assiduously to ensure that these perpetrators are brought to justice and indicated that the police have been working with several agencies locally and internationally, to prevent illegal entries and to curb any spread of COVID-19 in Dominica.