Amid a sharp uptick in gun-related violence and homicides, the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) is calling on the Government to urgently seek assistance from international intelligence and law enforcement agencies to combat what it describes as a growing national security crisis.
“The use of high-powered weapons in the commission of murders and other serious crimes clearly signals the elevated threat level to public safety,” CTUSAB declared in a statement. “Given that these firearms are reportedly being smuggled into the island without any clear indication of the source or supply chain, it is imperative that the Government engages international policing bodies to help stem the tide.”
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General Secretary Dennis de Peiza described the crime situation as reaching “unprecedented proportions,” warning that the country risks descending into “chaos, anarchy, and fear” if decisive action is not taken. Barbados has recorded 30 murders so far this year—an alarming figure that marks a historic high.
De Peiza expressed particular concern about the dominant role of firearms in these crimes. “The prevalence of gun violence—whether in murders, armed robberies, or home invasions—has deeply unsettled ordinary Barbadians,” he said. “We can no longer afford to treat this as business as usual.”
As part of its recommendations, CTUSAB is urging the Government to amend the Bail Act to prohibit bail for individuals charged with murder or caught in possession of illegal firearms. The union body emphasized that the protection of citizens, residents, and visitors must take precedence, even if it requires difficult policy shifts.
“The current climate demands tough decisions. We must send a clear message to the criminal element that the rule of law will be upheld and enforced.”
While acknowledging the strain on the Royal Barbados Police Force, de Peiza commended officers for their ongoing efforts under difficult circumstances. He, however, raised concerns about staff burnout and possible breaches of labor law.
“There is growing concern about officers being required to work indefinitely without adequate rest. This contravenes labor standards, which provide for two days of rest after a 40-hour work week,” he noted. “While extraordinary circumstances such as a de facto state of emergency may justify extended hours, this must be matched by fair compensation—including overtime pay.”
CTUSAB also drew a link between the escalating violence and systemic failures in education and youth development. De Peiza highlighted that the majority of violent offenders fall within the 18–35 age bracket, underscoring the urgency of educational reform and youth intervention.
“Discipline has eroded within the school system, and teachers now face threats not only from students but also from parents and guardians,” he said. “Educators are increasingly afraid—vulnerable to both physical attacks and legal reprisals. If we are to reclaim our schools, we must restore authority, structure, and respect in the classroom.”
As Barbados grapples with a wave of violent crime, CTUSAB’s call for international collaboration and domestic reform serves as a sobering reminder that restoring safety will require bold leadership, institutional support, and the collective will of the nation.
