The Bridgetown Division has emerged as Barbados’ crime hotspot, recording the highest number of incidents across the island, including 188 assaults, 104 robberies and 47 woundings, according to a new government crime report.
The study, presented by government criminologist Kim Ramsay, reveals how high population density and low socio-economic status are driving elevated crime rates, particularly in urban areas surrounding the capital such as Chapman Hill and Deacons.
“These areas see higher levels of crime because urban environments generally report more incidents than rural ones,” Ramsay said.
The report, based on 2023 data, shows Bridgetown leading in firearm possession cases with 14 incidents, whilst District ‘A’, which includes these neighbourhoods, continues to grapple with frequent shootings and violent crimes.
The tourist centre of Holetown on the west coast registered 232 theft cases and numerous reports of tourist harassment, creating distinct policing challenges in the area.
Across the island’s three main policing divisions – North, South, and Bridgetown – varied patterns emerged. The Northern Division witnessed an 18 per cent crime increase, primarily attributed to disputes, with District ‘D’ and District ‘F’ noting rising incidents. The northern community of Crab Hill bucked the trend, recording reduced crime rates.
The Southern Division faces fresh challenges, particularly in St Philip, where population growth is driving crime rates upward.
“Everybody is running to St Philip and the migration to [there] is bringing its own problems,” Ramsay noted.
The opening of the new Wyndham hotel at Sam Lord’s Castle has intensified concerns about “crimes of opportunity” as tourists venture beyond the resort, stretching police resources in the area.
Rural areas face unique challenges, with District ‘F’ particularly affected by livestock theft in 2023. Police have responded by deploying drones for surveillance, which Ramsay said “have proven helpful”.
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