No More Drug Squad: RSLPF Unveils New Unit to Battle Gangs, Guns, and Drugs

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has reorganised its Drug Squad, creating the new Gang, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit (GNFU) to focus on organised crime, drug trafficking, and gun-related offences.

This expansion of the unit, which previously focused solely on drug enforcement, comes in response to growing gang violence, the spread of illegal firearms, and the increasing impact of the narcotics trade, all of which have led to more homicides and community unrest.

Inspector Shervon Matthieu, who has been placed in charge of the unit, explained in a video statement on Saturday that the restructuring will provide a more thorough approach to fighting violent crime and dismantling criminal networks across the island.

The GNFU will operate two primary divisions, covering the north and south of the island. It will focus on gang-related crimes – monitoring and disrupting gang operations to curb violent incidents; narcotics trade – targeting the importation, distribution, and sale of illegal drugs; and firearms offences – seizing illegal firearms and dismantling networks that facilitate gun-related crimes.

“The rise in gang violence, drug trafficking, and illegal firearm possession has led to increased homicides, community fear, and youth recruitment into criminal activities,” Inspector Matthieu said. “The psychological and economic impact on citizens, businesses, and families is significant. GNFU will proactively address these concerns with targeted operations and intelligence-driven investigations.”

Recognising that crime, particularly drug and firearms trafficking, often extends beyond national borders, the RSLPF said the GNFU will work closely with several local and international agencies, including Customs and Excise Department, the Marine Police Unit, and Financial Intelligence Authority.

In its new role, the GNFU will not only enforce the law but also engage in prevention. It will implement educational campaigns in schools to raise awareness about the dangers of gangs, drugs, and firearms, as well as host community meetings to encourage residents to report suspicious activity.

The unit’s head said the establishment of the GNFU signals a new era in crime fighting in Saint Lucia.

“This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to restoring safety, reducing violent crime, and holding offenders accountable. We urge community members, businesses, and stakeholders to support this effort, as law enforcement alone cannot win this fight,” Inspector Matthieu said.