By the Caribbean Journal staff

Nevis’ Deputy Governor General Eustace John warned against calls by the Concerned Citizens Movement and the People’s Action Movement to declare a State of Emergency in the Federation.

While the deputy governor general said the increasing incidence of criminal activities in the federation was a serious threat to peace, stability and economic development, he said that declaring a State of Emergency like Trinidad has done could do more harm than good.

According to the deputy governor general, an emergency declaration could seriously damage the federation’s tourism industry and investment climate.

“We will give full support to the new Commissioner of Police and work with the Federal Government to improve the mobility, surveillance and investigative capabilities of the police force,” he said. “Ultimately, our efforts will be futile unless the police become more aggressive in apprehending criminals and rooting out gang violence.”