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BASSETERRE, St Kitts -- The Coalition of Support for St Kitts-Nevis Security Initiatives (CSSKNSI) held a brief handing-over ceremony on February 13 at the Defence Force grounds to donate a specially-equipped vehicle to the K-9 Unit of the Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force.

The CSSKNSI was formed to promote unity through one voice representing several organizations on the island. As such, the CSSKNSI has supported security initiatives, provided technology and donated security equipment in an effort to improve the safety of the Federation’s communities.

In June of last year, the CSSKNSI donated a trained police dog, Prego, to the police force. Prego is trained in evidence search to locate lost and stolen property, drugs and weapons. Because of his expertise, Prego requires particular healthcare and transport facilities. To further their support, the Coalition members recognized that the addition of a K-9 vehicle would be essential to the optimal performance of the dog.

The new K-9 vehicle, a Suzuki All Purpose Vehicle, is retrofitted with equipment suitable to safely transport two dogs and their handlers. As Prego’s handler, Constable Julius Wyatt of the Criminal Investigations Department will operate the vehicle. The donation demonstrated full support of the efforts of local security forces by the private sector business community in St Kitts and Nevis.

Speaking on behalf of CSSKNSI, Keithly Hicks, director of security at Windsor University, said that the businesses that form the CSSKNSI recognized the importance of donating to law enforcement.

“Having access to the necessary tools will further the police’s ability to protect and serve our communities,” he explained. “It is rewarding to know that contributions made by the CSSKNSI to the St Christopher and Nevis Police Force continue to contribute to keeping citizens, tourists, students, employees and communities safe. This is another prime example of how St Kitts and Nevis has improved public safety through a strong public/private partnership where members of the business community can recognize and respond to the needs of law enforcement,” said Hicks. “The coalition is pleased to be able to assist the police force in its efforts to combat crime.”

“The new K9 vehicle will be used as part of ongoing police operations and will provide a valuable resource in our crime fighting efforts,” said Police Commissioner Celvin Walwyn. “Law enforcement in the Federation can now pursue criminals who have fled the scene of a crime and use our resources to track their whereabouts. The K-9 Unit of the police force is grateful for the Coalition’s generous donation.”

The CSSKNSI has previously donated a patrol vehicle, a forensics vehicle, 50 bulletproof vests, six laptop computers with cases, 50 rechargeable flashlights, and eight police bicycles to the police force. In addition, they have provided funding for police training, airfare and accommodations for instructors.

The CSSKNSI includes Christophe Harbour, Cockleshell Bay Development, Four Seasons Nevis, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St Kitts Marriott Resort/Royal Beach Casino, Royal St Kitts Hotel & Casino, and Windsor University.

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