Fellow Grenadians, as we celebrate the holiday season, let us be inspired by the sense\u00a0 of hope associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. This renewed optimism should serve\u00a0 as a beacon of hope as we seek to emerge from the difficulties and challenges we\u00a0 faced this past year. The COVID-19 pandemic not only disrupted our lives and\u00a0 livelihoods, but sadly also took the lives of many of our loved ones. Notwithstanding,\u00a0 let us reflect and give thanks for the grace and mercy of God during this past year.<\/p>\n
COVID-19 and its associated challenges showcased the resilience of our people and\u00a0 gave eloquent testimony of our capacity to overcome adversity when we come\u00a0 together for a common purpose. This notion was reinforced by the fearless, unfazed\u00a0 and resolute commitment displayed by our frontline workers.<\/p>\n
As we embrace the holidays, be mindful that we are still in a fight against a persistent,\u00a0 versatile and deadly virus that preys on the unvaccinated, complacency and non compliance with the protocols. Let us use this time of grace to reinforce our\u00a0 commitment to getting vaccinated and being compliant with the protocols of the new\u00a0 normal.<\/p>\n
Notwithstanding the disruptive impact of the pandemic, from a law enforcement\u00a0 perspective, we achieved many successes. We have seen a relatively stable crime\u00a0 environment, characterised by a 70% contraction in homicides, a 2% reduction in\u00a0 reported crimes and a crime solving rate of 79%.<\/p>\n
We were able to effectively protect our borders from criminal elements and in the\u00a0 process seized 16 illegal firearms, and a quantity of illegal narcotics carrying an\u00a0 estimated street value of over $9.5 million. The RGPF also intercepted and deported\u00a0 37 Illegal immigrants, many of whom were involved in criminal activities.<\/p>\n
Driven by the passion to ensure the safety and security of our nation and the\u00a0 preservation of our way of life, our men and women in uniform demonstrated true grit\u00a0 in the face of high levels of infections. Sadly, we also lost two officers.<\/p>\n