The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) traffic department is set to undergo a major rebrand, according to Police Commissioner Verne Garde.
Garde says that by Tuesday, December 17, 45 new officers will join the traffic unit after completing training. Additionally, 45 motorcycle outriders will be trained, with 15 of them assigned to help the unit. Another 22 Special Police Constables (SPC’s) will also be hired and deployed to the traffic unit.
Garde emphasised a proactive approach to addressing road safety and crime. “To afford better management at the traffic area, we will also rebrand the traffic unit,” he announced. Starting January 1, 2025, the unit will be renamed the Department of Road Safety and Traffic Investigations.
“All of that is part of our plan to ensure 2025 is a different year for crime management and road safety,” Garde explained. He also urged the public to take heed, stating that those who break the law should be prepared for increased enforcement.
“Persons who are in conflict with the law will have to watch out.” Verne Garde said.
The warning came amid an alarming surge in road incidents, the latest occurring at Odsan on Sunday night, resulting in injuries to two men and a woman.
The emergency responders had to free two of the victims who were trapped after the head-on collision involving a Honda Civic and a Mitsubishi L200.
The Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) received a call for assistance at about 8:20 pm, responding with ambulances from the Castries, Gros Islet, and Dennery fire stations to transport the injured to the hospital.
