Members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) in collaboration with the Wilson Construction Company demolished abandoned homes and all derelict vehicles in Bennett’s Hill community last Friday.

In an effort to demolish crime hotspots in the area, about ten police officers responded to the concerns of Bennett’s Hill community members, who said abandoned buildings and cars have led to a number of crime related issues in the area.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Stephen Dean said it was a much needed exercise. He added that the exercise also shows the strong relationship which exists between the RBPF and residents of many constituencies.
“This is a direct result of when the police and members of the community get together to say enough is enough,” he said.

“This area has been a very peaceful and tranquil area, but we have seen in time it has been invaded by persons practicing criminal behavior. We targeted places that we have intelligence on to say this is where criminals are hanging out and we want to remove the opportunity for crime. We believe that people should be able to move about freely in their own communities.”

Assistant Commissioner Dean said because the community was in close proximity to Fort Fincastle and the Water Tower, tourism hotspots, the need to eradicate any possible way for crime to happen was much needed.

Residents in the area were pleased with the RBPF’s initiatives. They said it makes them feel a lot safer.
“I am extremely excited about it because with the trucks breaking down the homes and moving the cars through the corner, it’s really going to help us out,” said one resident.
“I think it’s a really good initiative,” said another resident. “These abandoned houses have been here for some time now and certain personalities have taken over them. I’m happy that they’re taking it down. This will be good for our community.”

Members of the RBPF said this is just one of the many community-based projects they plan to initiate this year.