(CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS–THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2010) Premier of Nevis, the Hon. Joseph Parry disturbed by the escalating crime in Nevis, has issued a public statement about a recent shooting during school hours in close proximity to the Gingerland High School.

Recently, another young man was shot dead in broad daylight. The young man grew up in Macknight, St. Kitts and had moved to Bath Village because of alleged gang related activity in which he was involved in St. Kitts.

According to Police, The victim only 21 years old had received gunshot wounds in another incident in St. Kitts last year.  He was also expected to be a witness in a legal matter in St. Kitts.

The Premier stated that the Nevis Island Administration strongly condemned this abhorrent act and will continue to be vigilant in the prevention and resolution of crime through their support of the Police and with crime or prevention measures which would to be implemented shortly such as the installation of close circuit cameras at key locations around the island.

He made a plea to every citizen, that it is important to give evidence to the Police when they could, as this is essential to bring to justice the “culprits of these senseless crimes.”

Mr. Parry added that all residents of Nevis should support the Police by reporting any unusual activity and movement of criminals between St. Kitts and Nevis.

In conclusion, the Premier made an appeal to parents to have a better relationship within the family structure.  He said, “As Parents we need to pay more attention to our children, their friends and their behavior.  In this current climate, no family is immune to this sort of thing so we must be very mindful of the influences in our children’s lives”.