By Tynia Brown 

Journal Staff Writer  

The Air BnB industry has begun to flourish in The Bahamas as many residents convert their homes into temporary rental units and promote them through various web sites, some more stringent than others, while some property owners utilize more of an over-the-counter approach.

While on the scene of the triple murder that took place on Step Street in Fox Hill Monday afternoon, police said they believe many of the suspects committing murders are individuals who are on bail for murder and are reoffending.

Additionally, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander noted that criminal investigators are searching for several individuals who are wanted for questioning in connection to recent murders, but they have not been able to locate these individuals despite the small size of the island.

Despite receiving help from friends and family the Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander believes that some of these wanted individuals may be using Airbnb rentals to hide.

Fernander issued a caution to property owners utilizing their homes for Airbnb rentals. He emphasized that individuals being sought by law enforcement may be using these rentals to evade capture.

“We believe these individuals are still in the country, possibly hiding out in rental properties,” Fernander stated. “Owners need to be vigilant, as these suspects may send someone else to rent their homes while they remain nearby, potentially returning to commit further crimes.”

Fernander noted that the police have sent out multiple wanted posters for individuals linked to recent criminal activities. “We know where these suspects live, and despite our efforts to check on them, many are not staying at home,” he said. “It’s crucial for property owners to monitor their rentals closely.”

Fernander also highlighted that many gated communities could inadvertently become safe havens for those trying to evade law enforcement. He urged homeowners to be proactive and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. 

“Your vigilance can help keep our community safe,” Fernander concluded.

Just last week the criminal investigation department released a list of nine individuals wanted for murder, and as it stands right now none of those individuals have been found.

They are 32-year- old Kevin Ramsey of Knowles drive, 26-year-old Andrew Davis of Bozine Town, 31-year- old Kevin Calixte of Bozine Town, 22-year- old Malik Sawyer of McKinney Crescent, 28-year- old Treyvon Lockhart of Melvern Road Yellow Elder Gardens, 33-year-old Deangelo Wright of Marathon Road, 30-year Christavio Tucker of Walnut Street Pinewood Gardens, 30-year-old Jesson Cela of Hamilton Street and 23-year-old Collins Florissant of Ridgeland Park.

The public is reminded that harboring a wanted person or helping them evade the police is a criminal offence that can land you in prison.

If you know the whereabouts of any of these men, police want you to call cid at 502-9991/2 or, 911/919 or remain anonymous and call crime stoppers at 328-TIPS.